Blockbuster fixtures headline DStv Premiership opener

The much anticipated 2022/23 DStv Premiership kicks off on Friday night as teams get back to business following an interesting campaign last time out with one aim of winning the league.

The new season promises to be no different from the previous one, following a busy transfer market. Teams are brimming with new talents and some with new men at the helm.

Friday, 05 August

Cape Town City vs Mamelodi Sundowns

Last season’s running up Cape Town City host reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns at DHL Stadium. The match promises fireworks, with both teams undoubtedly amongst the title contenders. Last season they played out to two goalless draws in the league.

Saturday, 06 August

Marumo Gallants vs Stellenbosch FC

The Stellies had an impressive season last time out, finishing 4th; Steve Barker will be aiming at replicating last season’s success. On the other hand, under new coach Romain Folz’s guidance, Gallants will seek to improve from their 10th finish. In 2021/22, the duo won one match each, winning their respective home matches.

Orlando Pirates vs Swallows FC

The original Soweto Derby headlines the opening weekend. The Bucs will aim to continue their dominance over their rivals with new coach Jose Riveiro set to debut. Swallows are out for redemption after surviving the drop on the last day of the playoffs. Pirates collected four points from the Dube Birds last season.

Golden Arrows vs Richards Bay

Arrows host new boys Richards Bay in a KZN Derby. Abafana Bes’thende are aiming to improve on last season’s ninth-place finish, which saw them miss out on the MTN8 spot. The Natal Rich Boys are debutants after they were crowned 2021/22 GladAfrica Championship champions.

Royal AM vs Kaizer Chiefs

Both teams will have new men in charge. Khabo Zondo and Dan Dance now lead Thwihli Thwahla whilst Arthur Zwane is at Amakhosi. They will aim to improve last season’s performance after finishing third and fifth, respectively, on the log. Royal AM collected six points from the misfiring Chiefs.

Maritzburg United vs Sekhukhune United

The duo finished 12th and 11th last campaign, only separated by two points. With new coaches at the helm and new faces, they are eyeing improving last campaign’s results. Sekhukhune played better last season after collecting four points from their opponents.

Sunday, 07 August

TS Galaxy vs AmaZulu

Following new top-class additions in respective squads, the encounter will be an interesting one to watch. The Rockets roped in Sbusiso Vikalazi after Sundowns released him. Usuthu bolstered their arsenal by adding George Maluleka, Dumisani Zuma and Gabadinho Mhango. The KZN outfit dominated Galaxy last season after registering a win and a draw.

SuperSport United vs Chippa United

It’s father vs son as Gavin Hunt faces Daine Klate in the league opener. The Chilli Boys are underdogs, with Klate set to make his debut as a coach. Both coaches know their opponents very well, having previously worked there. Last season when the two teams faced off, both matches ended in stalemates; 0-0 and 1-1, respectively.

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