South African Premiership Predictions

The South African Premiership (officially known as the Betway Premiership) is one of Africa’s most important domestic leagues. It has viewers from across the continent and leads the way with both tactics and raw talent. Here, we take into consideration their early results in the league to make some predictions about the remainder of the season.

Upcoming Matches predictions

AmaZulu vs Siwelele

AmaZulu

Saturday, 22 November 2025

2:30 pm

Siwelele

Home

2.21

Draw

2.74

Away

3.54

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AmaZulu enter this fixture with a sense of cautious optimism, having shown flashes of resilience in recent weeks despite inconsistent results. Over the past two months, the Durban-based side has been in the headlines for their managerial adjustments and squad rotation, as coach Pablo Franco Martín continues to search for the right balance. Their recent league matches included a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Golden Arrows and a narrow 2-1 defeat to Orlando Pirates, both of which highlighted their defensive vulnerabilities but also their ability to stay competitive against strong opposition. The team has also been praised for integrating younger players into the starting lineup, a move that reflects a long-term vision but comes with short-term challenges. With the Betway Premiership season entering a crucial phase, AmaZulu know that every point matters, especially against mid-table rivals like Siwelele.

Siwelele, known formally as Bloemfontein Celtic before their franchise transition, have also been making waves in the Premiership over the past two months. Their recent performances have been marked by grit and determination, even if results have not always gone their way. A notable fixture was their 1-1 stalemate against Cape Town Spurs, where their defensive organization stood out, followed by a narrow 2-1 loss to SuperSport United that exposed their lack of cutting edge in attack. Off the pitch, Siwelele have been in the news for their efforts to stabilize finances and strengthen community ties, ensuring that the club maintains its identity despite past ownership changes. Their supporters remain among the most passionate in South Africa, and this energy often translates into spirited performances on the field. As they prepare to face AmaZulu, Siwelele will be eager to prove that they can grind out results against teams of similar stature.

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Marumo Gallants vs Sekhukhune

Marumo Gallants

Saturday, 22 November 2025

5:00 pm

Sekhukhune

Home

2.89

Draw

2.65

Away

2.58

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Marumo Gallants prepare to host Sekhukhune United in the Betway Premiership on 22 November 2025, a fixture that has already drawn attention due to both teams’ contrasting fortunes this season. Gallants have been in the news recently after securing a much-needed win earlier in November, which lifted them slightly from the lower end of the table. Their coach Alexandre Lafitte has emphasized the importance of defensive solidity, especially after conceding heavily in October. Sekhukhune, meanwhile, have been under scrutiny following a string of inconsistent performances, with their manager Eric Tinkler calling for greater discipline in midfield. The past two months have seen both clubs reshuffle line-ups, with Gallants relying on M. Sikhosana’s work rate and Sekhukhune leaning on S. Mogaila’s creativity, making this clash one of resilience versus flair.

Looking at recent matches, Marumo Gallants have shown signs of resilience, recording two wins and two draws in their last five outings. Their victory against Richards Bay earlier this month was particularly significant, as it demonstrated their ability to grind out results under pressure. They also managed a hard-fought draw against Cape Town Spurs, where their defensive organization was praised despite limited attacking chances. Sekhukhune, on the other hand, have endured a tougher run, losing three consecutive matches before bouncing back with wins against Chippa United and Golden Arrows. Their struggles in October highlighted defensive lapses, but their recent improvement suggests they are capable of turning things around. Both teams’ recent form sets the stage for a balanced contest where neither side can afford mistakes.

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Polokwane vs Mamelodi Sundowns

Polokwane

Sunday, 23 November 2025

2:30 pm

Mamelodi Sundowns

Home

10.9

Draw

3.35

Away

1.41

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Polokwane City enter this clash against Mamelodi Sundowns with a mixture of resilience and determination, having shown flashes of consistency in recent weeks. In October, Polokwane managed to grind out a hard-fought draw against Golden Arrows, followed by a narrow defeat to Kaizer Chiefs where they were undone by a late goal. Their defensive structure has been praised, but their lack of cutting edge in front of goal remains a concern. News surrounding the club has focused on their efforts to strengthen their midfield options, with coach Phuti Mohafe emphasizing the need for tactical discipline. The team’s supporters are hopeful that their side can frustrate the reigning champions, especially given Polokwane’s ability to hold firm against stronger opponents.

Mamelodi Sundowns, on the other hand, continue to dominate headlines in the Betway Premiership, having maintained their reputation as the most formidable side in South African football. Over the past two months, Sundowns secured victories against SuperSport United and Stellenbosch, while also drawing against Orlando Pirates in a tense encounter that highlighted their defensive solidity. The club has been in the news for their CAF Champions League campaign, where they advanced comfortably through the group stages, reinforcing their continental ambitions. Coach Rulani Mokwena has rotated his squad effectively, ensuring key players such as Themba Zwane and Peter Shalulile remain fresh for domestic fixtures. Their depth and tactical flexibility make them favorites in almost every match they play.

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Richards Bay vs Durban City

Richards Bay

Sunday, 23 November 2025

5:00 pm

Durban City

Home

2.89

Draw

2.625

Away

2.61

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Richards Bay enter this clash against Durban City with a sense of urgency, as their recent form in the Betway Premiership has been inconsistent. Over the past two months, the club has been in the headlines due to their fight to avoid relegation, with management emphasizing the importance of defensive stability. In October, Richards Bay secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Chippa United, which briefly lifted spirits, but subsequent defeats against Kaizer Chiefs and Sekhukhune United highlighted their struggles in attack. The team has been working on tightening their backline, with coach Vusi Vilakazi stressing discipline and structure as the key to survival in the league. Fans are hoping that the squad can rediscover resilience, especially in matches where points are crucial for their standing.

Durban City, on the other hand, have been making steady progress and have enjoyed a more positive run of results in recent weeks. In late October, they managed a 2-1 win over Golden Arrows, followed by a hard-fought draw against Orlando Pirates, which showcased their ability to compete with stronger sides. Their midfield has been praised for its energy and creativity, with players like Lungelo Dlamini stepping up to provide balance between defense and attack. News from November also revealed that Durban City are looking to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window, aiming to push further up the table. Their coach has been vocal about maintaining momentum, insisting that consistency will be the foundation for their ambitions this season.

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TS Galaxy vs Golden Arrows

TS Galaxy

Sunday, 23 November 2025

2:30 pm

Golden Arrows

Home

1.88

Draw

2.97

Away

4.34

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TS Galaxy enter this fixture against Golden Arrows with growing confidence after a string of competitive performances in the Betway Premiership. Over the past two months, the Rockets have made headlines by securing crucial points that lifted them into the mid-table zone, with coach Sead Ramovic emphasizing the importance of consistency and discipline. Their recent victory over Cape Town Spurs showcased their ability to grind out results, while a narrow defeat to Orlando Pirates highlighted both their resilience and areas needing improvement. The squad has also been boosted by the return of key midfielder Mpho Mvelase, whose energy and ball distribution have been vital in stabilizing the team’s rhythm. With the league tightening, TS Galaxy’s supporters are hopeful that their side can continue to build momentum and edge closer to the top half of the standings.

Golden Arrows, meanwhile, have endured a mixed run of form in the last two months, balancing promising wins with frustrating setbacks. Their triumph against Chippa United was a reminder of their attacking flair, but losses to Stellenbosch and Kaizer Chiefs exposed defensive vulnerabilities that coach Mabhuti Khenyeza has been working hard to address. The team’s news has also included the emergence of young striker Lungelo Nguse, who has impressed with his pace and willingness to take on defenders. However, the absence of experienced defender Nkosinathi Sibisi due to injury has left a gap in their backline, forcing tactical reshuffles that have not always paid off. Despite these challenges, Arrows remain a dangerous side capable of unsettling opponents with quick transitions and sharp wing play, making them a tricky opponent for Galaxy.

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The sundowns dynasty continues

Mamelodi Sundowns are no doubt the kings of South African football right now, having recently secured their eighth consecutive league title in the 2024-25 season. It places them among the most dominant forces in African football history, even if they have gotten off to a slower start than their rivals.

Owned by Motsepe, a South African billionaire, it would be unwise to suggest their success was simply financial superiority – their approach to squad building, tactical innovation, and youth development have so far been what rivals are looking to replicate.

The manager, Cardoso, is a Portuguese coach with an incredible amount of experience despite his young age. At just 53, he has worked in some coaching capacity at 16 different clubs – including Porto, Sporting CP, Shakhtar Donetsk, Celta Vigo, and Nantes. He hasn’t been the coach across the eight straight league wins, and so his 3rd-place start to the season could raise some eyebrows early on.

Of course, when looking at the best no deposit bonuses in South Africa, Sundowns are heavy favourites. And while he did win the league for them in 2024-25, there could be room for a narrative change. Still, the club benefits from extensive scouting networks from all across the continent – and the two Brazilian forwards of Arthur Sales and Lucas Ribeiro, who can speak to their coach in Portuguese, show that there’s a global reach by the club that not everyone can compete with. Their challenge will be in remaining hungry for the season ahead, with some other competitors hot on their heels.

The struggle of the big three’s others

Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, two-thirds of South Africa’s traditional “Big Three,” continue to fight for their relevancy in the Sundowns era. Pirates have shown more promise in recent seasons, with their attacking philosophy and commitment to developing young talent beginning to bear fruit. Their ability to compete in cup competitions while building for the future suggests a more sustainable approach than their rivals, but they have had a slow start to the season, sitting 11th after matchweek three.

Kaizer Chiefs face their most challenging period in decades. Recent results, including struggles to secure top-eight finishes, show the depth of their rebuilding project – a little bit like Manchester United right now.

The Amakhosi faithful deserve credit for their support, but patience is wearing thin. A strong start to the season with three straight wins puts them joint first. Nasreddine Nabi, the manager, has only been with the club for one whole season so far. This season will be where he is really given his run to see what he achieves after building the team he wants.

The rise of the new contenders

Stellenbosch FC is seen as the new wave of professional management in South African football. Their rise through the divisions since being founded in 2016 was truly impressive, and they’re being led by Steve Barker, a former player in the league. Because he’s been with the club (almost) since its inception, there is a romantic belief around this club. Last season, they finished third, and many are wondering if they can top that this year despite the poor start.

AmaZulu FC’s recent investment has yielded mixed results, but their commitment to infrastructure and player development suggests long-term thinking that could eventually pay off. Their ability to attract quality coaches and players proves they’re one to watch this season. Though, their 2-0 loss to Mamelodi Sundowns does show they have a little way to go still.

How tactics are changing

José Riveiro’s appointment as Orlando Pirates head coach in June 2022 was a big watershed moment. The Spanish tactician (Spanish being the most tactically influential nation in the English Premier League, too) helped Pirates win the 2022 MTN 8 League Cup and 2022–23 Nedbank Cup in his first campaign.

Riveiro’s tactical tweak was to deploy a high-pressing 4-2-3-1 formation, much like we have seen around the world, and kept opponents on the back foot. His tactical adaptability was evident in matches like the victory over Polokwane City, where he changed tactics at half-time before making strategic substitutions that led to victory.

Riveiro departed Pirates after the 2024-25 season, but his influence lives on and other high-pressing managers in 2025 stand a unique chance to fill that tactical gap he’s left behind.

Looking forward

Three games into the new season and we can’t tell much besides the fact it will be a close and unpredictable campaign. While Sundowns’ dominance is often presumed, they have failed to beat Chippa United and Orlando Pirates over the past two weeks. While they remain firm favourites at the bookies, all dominant eras end at some point.