Milford FC sealed promotion after a dramatic 1-1 draw against Magesi FC in the PSL Promotion Play-Offs.
The result condemned Magesi FC to relegation to the Motsepe Foundation Championship, while the Stallions celebrated a historic first appearance in South Africa’s top flight.
Earlier in the campaign, Kruger United had already secured automatic promotion after winning the Motsepe Foundation Championship title. Orbit College, meanwhile, dropped out of the Betway Premiership. Thier season ended with just 24 points from 30 matches.
MILFORD FC COMPLETE PSL FAIRYTALE RISE
Based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, Milford FC have enjoyed a remarkable rise since the club was founded in 2012 by Dr Xanti BS Pupuma.
The Stallions spent years climbing through the amateur ranks before acquiring the National First Division status of UThongathi FC ahead of the 2023/24 season. That move gave Milford FC a place in the Motsepe Foundation Championship and laid the foundation for their rapid progress.
Their PSL promotion was confirmed in dramatic fashion. Menzi Chili scored the crucial equaliser in the 1-1 draw with Magesi FC. It ensured Milford FC finished on top of the promotion play-off standings.
The club will now prepare for life in the Betway Premiership. They are expected to use the uMhlathuze Sports Complex in Richards Bay as its home venue.
KRUGER UNITED CROWNED CHAMPIONS
Kruger United will also compete in the Betway Premiership next season after winning the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
The club was formed in 2023 after local businessmen Bongani Wati and Basil Khoza acquired the status of Caroline FC. Kruger United quickly established themselves as an ambitious project. They earned promotion from the ABC Motsepe League before immediately challenging for top honours in the PSL professional ranks.
Rather than merely surviving in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, Kruger United went on to dominate the division and finished the season with 62 points from 30 matches to secure automatic promotion.
Their success came through a blend of emerging local talent and experienced players, allowing the club to make an immediate impact.
Milford FC and Kruger United are heading up. Magesi FC and Orbit College haved droped down. The Betway Premiership will welcome two fresh faces for the 2026/27 campaign.