The 2023 Betway Premiership season kicks off this weekend with several intriguing fixtures that will set the tone for the upcoming campaign. One of the most anticipated matches is Orlando Pirates' baptism of fire against newly promoted Milford FC on Saturday in Soweto. Promoted via the play-offs, Milford famously beat Kaizer Chiefs in a Nedbank Cup fixture a few seasons ago and have a history of overcoming big guns. However, this will be their first meeting with Orlando Pirates.
Kaizer Chiefs begin life under new coach Fernando Da Cruz at promoted Kruger United on Saturday night. With what is expected to be a huge turnout at Mbombela Stadium, the team hopes to establish themselves as title contenders after finishing in third place last season. However, transfer dealings have been somewhat underwhelming so far, and they will rely heavily on their core squad from last year.
Stellenbosch undergoes a significant squad overhaul this transfer window, with many of the ball players leaving for new identities. Gone are the days when Stellenbosch played a more possession-based game; now, coach Gavin Hunt is looking to shape the squad in his image ahead of their home opener against AmaZulu. The match will actually be played in Durban as there were no suitable venues in the Western Cape.
In another interesting clash, former co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef face each other for the first time since leaving Kaizer Chiefs at the end of last season. Kaze has moved to Sekhukhune United, while Ben Youssef joins Durban City. The two teams will meet in their season opener at Seshego Stadium in Polokwane on Saturday.
TS Galaxy begin life under permanent coach Bernard Parker with an away trip to Siwelele for their clash in Bloemfontein on Sunday. While Siwelele finished in 10th place, only two points outside the top eight, they were among the lowest scorers in the league last season with just 24 goals. Galaxy will be wary of another relegation battle and are always tough at home, but need to find their mojo on the road.
