This weekend’s Betway Premiership schedule may leave a clearer picture of the top teams this season come the final whistles.
On Saturday, Sekhukhune United are set for a new era after the shock axing of Cedric Kaze.
Then, on Sunday, Mamelodi Sundowns can move to the top of the table and put more pressure on defending champions Orlando Pirates.
Finally, Kaizer Chiefs will answer questions about where they fit in the title picture when they take to the field, also on Sunday afternoon.
Papi Zothwane’s first test at Sekhukhune loading
The home clash against TS Galaxy will be Papi Zothwane’s first match since being named interim coach of Sekhukhune United.
This follows the club parting ways with Cedric Kaze on 1 September.
The former Kaizer Chiefs coach lasted only a few games at the helm of Babina Noko.
That run included defeats to Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 semi-finals and a league loss to Kaizer Chiefs.
Kaze left his role at the club with Sekhukhune United eighth in the Betway Premiership table.
His interim successor, Zothwane, is already well known to the club.
The 45-year-old, a former midfielder for Golden Arrows and Mamelodi Sundowns, joined Sekhukhune United as Kaze’s assistant this season.
Zothwane will also be supported by Paulus Masehe, whose previous interim coaching experience offers some continuity.
The game against TS Galaxy will not be a simple task.
The Rockets showed up in the 3-2 loss to Mamelodi Sundowns, proving they are capable of frustrating bigger teams.
Sekhukhune United will be wary of allowing TS Galaxy, currently in ninth place, moving ahead of them on the PSL log.
Mamelodi Sundowns looking to take advantage
On Sunday, 6 September, Mamelodi Sundowns travel to Golden Arrows for a match that could already affect the title race.
Masandawana are level on points with Orlando Pirates after their 2-0 win over Milford FC on Wednesday.
A positive result against Golden Arrows would put pressure on the Buccaneers at the top.
However, Mamelodi Sundowns won’t take the clash against Abafana Bes’thende lightly.
Golden Arrows got the better of their MTN8 semi-final first leg, proving that they are capable of testing the division’s strongest teams.
With Orlando Pirates leading the PSL table on goal difference, but not in league action this weekend, the game carries higher stakes than one might expect.
Mamelodi Sundowns would be looking at a statement win against a tricky opponent.
Kaizer Chiefs still finding their place in title race
Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs are holding onto third place in the Betway Premiership standings.
Their campaign has been solid to date with the Soweto giants unbeaten after four games.
The Amakhosi have two wins and two draws, including an important tie against Mamelodi Sundowns, leaving them within touching distance of the top.
While the MTN8 campaign fell apart in the quarter-finals, Kaizer Chiefs would still be somewhat confident.
Their next assignment is a home clash with Siwelele FC.
Three points would put Kaizer Chiefs in a strong position to challenge rivals Orlando Pirates, rather than just keep pace.
All the PSL weekend fixtures: 4 to 6 September
4 September
Marumo Gallants vs Polokwane City, Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Rustenburg – 19:30
Richards Bay FC vs AmaZulu FC, Princess Magogo Stadium, Durban -19:30
5 September
Chippa United vs Milford FC, Dobsonville Stadium, Soweto, Johannesburg – 15:00
Sekhukhune United vs TS Galaxy, Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane – 17:30
6 September
Golden Arrows vs Mamelodi Sundowns, King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium, Durban – 15:00
Kaizer Chiefs vs Siwelele FC, Dobsonville Stadium, Soweto, Johannesburg – 17:30
Which match are you most looking forward to this weekend?
Let us know by clicking on the comment banner …
