As the Betway Premiership season reaches its decisive phase, three of South Africa’s top sides — Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and Stellenbosch FC — are in action on Wednesday evening with crucial points on the line.
While Sundowns edge closer to an eighth straight league title, Pirates remain in pursuit of a domestic treble, and Stellenbosch look to return to continental competition. With high stakes and shifting momentum, every fixture could prove pivotal.
WEDNESDAY
Mamelodi Sundowns vs Richards Bay
Venue: Loftus Versfeld Stadium | Kick-off: 7.30pm
Mamelodi Sundowns are exactly where they want to be on the continental stage — into the CAF Champions League final after eliminating the reigning kings of African football, Al Ahly. But while they are just two games away from reclaiming the African crown for the first time since 2016, they know the greatest honour comes from home.
Sundowns have ruled the domestic league for the past seven seasons, and a win this season would mark their eighth consecutive Betway Premiership title.
Already perched atop the table with 55 points — nine ahead of second-placed Orlando Pirates—Sundowns are firmly in control. Wednesday’s fixture against Richards Bay gives them a golden opportunity to edge closer to yet another championship.
Prediction: Mamelodi Sundowns 2–0 Richards Bay
Betting Odds: Mamelodi Sundowns 1.38 | Draw 4.30 | Richards Bay 9.20
Orlando Pirates vs Sekhukhune United
Venue: Orlando Stadium | Kick-off: 7.30pm
Orlando Pirates had high hopes of reaching the CAF Champions League final for the first time since 2013, but their ambitions were dashed by Pyramids FC in the semi-finals.
Now, they must turn their attention to domestic success. Hosting Sekhukhune United tonight, Pirates will aim to keep their treble hopes alive. Having already won the MTN8 and reached the Nedbank Cup final — where they’ll face bitter rivals Kaizer Chiefs—Pirates are also still in contention for the Betway Premiership.
A win tonight would not only keep them in the title race but also give them a crucial morale boost ahead of back-to-back Soweto derbies in the league and Nedbank Cup over the next two weekends.
Prediction: Orlando Pirates 1–0 Sekhukhune United
Betting Odds: Orlando Pirates 1.43 | Draw 4.20 | Sekhukhune United 7.80
Stellenbosch FC vs Chippa United
Venue: Danie Craven Stadium | Kick-off: 7.30pm
Following their exit from the CAF Confederation Cup, Stellenbosch FC and coach Steve Barker are determined to secure a top-three league finish to return to continental football next season.
They head into their clash with Chippa United trailing Sekhukhune United by three points — but with a game in hand and a superior goal difference, victory would hand them the edge.
Stellies beat Chippa 2-0 at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium earlier this season, but this encounter is expected to be more challenging. Chippa are within touching distance of a rare top-eight finish and will be highly motivated.
Prediction: Stellenbosch FC 2–1 Chippa United
Betting Odds: Stellenbosch FC 1.71 | Draw 3.40 | Chippa United 5.40
