MTN8 is lost to the Chiefs, and Stellies take third place

Heavyweights Kaizer Chiefs lost their chance to qualify for the MTN8, Cape Town City was temporarily removed from the relegation playoff zone, and Stellenbosch FC took third place on the “final” matchday of Betway Premiership competition in South Africa.

At the Cape Town Stadium, Stellenbosch and Cape Town City, their rivals from the Western Cape, played to a goalless draw. Despite other outcomes, the point was sufficient to raise both sides’ hopes.

With fourth-place Sekhukhune United losing 3-2 on the road to Golden Arrows at the Princess Magogo Stadium, Stellies secured third place and earned a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup for the next season.

Tresor Yamba’s own goal and goals from Nhlanhla Zwane and Sbonelo Cele helped Abafana Bes’thende upset Babino Noko, who finished with nine men after dismissing Shaune Mogaila and Ngoanamello Rammala. Arrows’ safety was also assured by the victory.

Richards Bay, on the other hand, is responsible for Cape Town City’s escape from the relegation playoff zone as the Natal Rich Boyz defeated SuperSport United 2-0 at the Peter Mokaba Stadium thanks to goals from Yanela Mbuthuma and Thulani Gumede.

Matsatsantsa’s destiny will be determined by the conclusion of their postponed game against Golden Arrows from back in February. As a result, they have slipped into the relegation playoff berth.

Richards Bay jumped to eighth place and appears certain to compete in the MTN8 next season; the KwaZulu-Natal team would only be eliminated if Magesi won their final game next week by an unlikely five goals.

Richards Bay’s ascent came at the expense of Magesi and Marumo Gallants, who drew 1-1 at the Seshego Stadium following goals from Sekela Sithole and Mcedi Vandala, and Kaizer Chiefs, who were only able to draw 0-0 with Polokwane City at the FNB Stadium (meaning the Amakhosi will not be playing in the MTN8 for a second consecutive season).

Simphiwe Selepe gave the Buccaneers a one-goal after Patrick Maswanganyi’s own goal put AmaZulu FC and Orlando Pirates in a 1-1 draw at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

On the evening of Wednesday, May 28, Orlando Pirates will host Magesi FC in Soweto in the final Premiership game.

As of right now, SuperSport United is scheduled to play in the promotion/relegation playoffs, while Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates (both qualify for the CAF Champions League), Stellenbosch FC (qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup), Sekhukhune United, TS Galaxy, AmaZulu, Polokwane City, and Richards Bay will compete in the MTN8 the following season.

Results of the Betway Premiership

Saturday, May 24

1-1 Orlando Pirates AmaZulu FC

Stellenbosch FC 0-0 Cape Town City FC

Golden Arrows defeat Sekhukhune United 3-2.

Polokwane City 0-0 Kaizer Chiefs

1-1 Marumo Gallants Magesi FC

Richards Bay, SuperSport United, 0-2