The opening weekend of the 2026/27 SA Premiership produced plenty of talking points, with seven matches played across Saturday, 1 August, and Sunday, 2 August. Mamelodi Sundowns and Marumo Gallants were not involved in the opening round.

Orlando Pirates 2-0 Milford FC

Defending champions Orlando Pirates began their title defence with a professional 2-0 victory over newly promoted Milford FC. The Buccaneers controlled large periods of the contest and showed the composure expected from a side carrying championship ambitions. Milford worked hard but struggled to create enough clear opportunities. For Pirates, collecting three points without conceding was an ideal opening to the campaign.

Golden Arrows 0-0 Chippa United

Golden Arrows and Chippa United played out a goalless draw in a tight encounter. Both sides had opportunities but lacked the finishing quality required to break the deadlock. Arrows will feel they could have done more at home, while Chippa can be satisfied with securing an away point. It was a cautious start from two teams targeting a strong finish in the middle of the table.

Stellenbosch FC 0-1 AmaZulu

AmaZulu produced one of the weekend’s most impressive away performances by defeating Stellenbosch 1-0. Stellenbosch enjoyed periods of possession but struggled to turn their territorial advantage into goals. AmaZulu remained disciplined defensively and took advantage of their opportunity to secure all three points. The result gives Usuthu an early confidence boost, while Stellenbosch will be disappointed to begin their campaign with a home defeat.

Sekhukhune United 1-0 Durban City

Sekhukhune United edged newly promoted Durban City 1-0 in a closely fought match. Durban City showed determination and competed throughout, but Sekhukhune’s organisation made the difference. The win gives Sekhukhune an important three points to start the campaign, while Durban City can take encouragement from their performance despite leaving empty-handed.

Kruger United 1-3 Kaizer Chiefs

Kaizer Chiefs made one of the strongest statements of the opening weekend with a convincing 3-1 victory away to newly promoted Kruger United. The result showed the difference in experience between the two teams, with Chiefs taking their chances efficiently. Kruger United did manage to find the net, but Chiefs’ attacking quality proved too much. The victory will raise expectations around Amakhosi, who will be hoping to challenge near the top of the table this season.

Richards Bay 1-2 Polokwane City

Polokwane City claimed an important 2-1 away victory against Richards Bay on Sunday. The visitors showed good character to secure all three points in a competitive contest. Richards Bay fought hard but were unable to turn their home advantage into a positive result. For Polokwane City, winning away from home on the opening weekend represents an excellent foundation and could prove valuable as the season develops.

Siwelele 2-2 TS Galaxy

The weekend concluded with an entertaining 2-2 draw between Siwelele and TS Galaxy. Both teams displayed attacking intent and refused to settle for a cautious approach, producing one of the more exciting games of the opening round. Siwelele will be pleased with their attacking contribution but frustrated that they could not hold on for victory at home. Galaxy, meanwhile, showed resilience to leave Bloemfontein with a valuable point.

Weekend verdict

Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs were among the opening round’s biggest winners, while AmaZulu and Polokwane City also made strong starts. The three draws highlighted how competitive the Premiership could be this season. With Mamelodi Sundowns and Marumo Gallants not involved, the early league picture remains incomplete, but the first round has already delivered plenty of excitement.