Cape Town City were held to a 1-1 draw by Casric Stars in the conclusion of the PSL Promotion Playoffs at the Cape Town Stadium on Monday.

With the fate of both sides already decided, the fixture served as a preview for the two future clashes between the teams in the Motsepe Foundation Championship next season.

Cape Town City fielded a youthful team, making six changes from their loss against Orbit College, while Casric Stars made eight changes to their line up.

Amajita star Jody Lee Ah Shene fired City into the lead just seconds after Casric goalkeeper Tshigwana Mthombeni made a double save in the second minute, as he tapped home Luphumlo Sifumba’s pass from close range after Casric failed to clear the ball.

Casric’s first real chance came in the 13th minute as Augustine Mahlonoko played a beautiful through ball for Lifa Sylvester Makua, who shot from the edge of the area, his effort sailing over the bar.

The away team drew level in the 18th minute through captain Decide Chauke, who was played in by Teboho Lekhatla and showed great composure to hold off two defenders and find the back of the net.

Casric had a chance to take the lead in the 25th minute as Kabelo Mofokeng left the ball for Loatlile Tlholoe at the edge of the area, whose shot was off target.

City should have added another in the 39th minute after a defensive mistake from Makua, as the ball fell to Ah Shene in the box.

His dummy sent the keeper and Ofentse Mothapo the wrong way, but his shot was blocked by Joel Agoe.

The last chance of the half was Casric’s as Lekhatla’s cross found the arriving Tlholoe whose effort was headed out of box by Lorenzo Gordinho, falling to Agoe whose shot was not powerful enough to trouble the keeper.

MISSED CHANCES

City were denied a penalty in the 64th minute as Yagan Sasman brought down Siphamandla Dondolo, failing to get to the ball.

However, City’s protests fell on deaf ears.

In the 75th minute, substitute Abbey Junior Seseane cut onto his left foot on the edge of the box, his curling effort going narrowly wide of the post.

Substitute Mlungisi Zwane came close to a winning goal in the 78th minute, as fellow substitute Simon Moukete found him open on the far side of the box, but his volley went over the crossbar.

In the 82nd min, City youngster Emile Witbooi should have handed his side the lead from a swift counter attack but he tried to cut onto his favoured right foot and was dispossessed by Mothapo.

The #PSLPomotionPlayOffs end with a draw between Cape Town City and Casric Stars 🤝#SSDiski pic.twitter.com/cjs7qObkV2

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) June 30, 2025

Cape Town City (1) 1 (Ah Shene 2’)

Casric Stars (1) 1 (Chauke 18’)

Cape Town City: L. Diana-Oliaro, S. Dondolo (P. Fisher 81’), N. Fasika, L. Gordinho, T. Nyama (L. Slatsha 56’), S. April (T. Goedeman 56’), G. Amato, A. Petrus, J. Rhodes, L. Sifumba (E. Witbooi 56’), J. L. Ah Shene (C. Bezuidenhout 62’)

Casric Stars: T. Mthombeni, O. Mothapo, C. Tchouplaou, L. Tlholoe (K. Erasmus 71’), K. Mofokeng, J. Agoe, A. Mahlonoko (A. Seseane 46’), Y. Sasman, D. A. Chauke (S. Moukete 72’), L. S. Makua (T. Semache 59’), T. Lekhatla (M. Zwane 59’)

Cape Town City and Casric Stars will be playing for pride when they face each other in the final PSL Playoff tournament fixture at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town on Monday.

Kick-off is at 3pm CAT.

CURRENT FORM

Both sides have been condemned to the Motsepe Foundation Championship after Orbit College achieved promotion with a 1-0 win over City at Olympia Park Stadium in Rustenburg on Wednesday.

The Citizens have managed just two points from their three playoff games so far, having drawn with Orbit College and Casric Stars before falling to Orbit College in their second encounter on Wednesday.

Casric Stars have had an identical playoff run, drawing with both sides before losing 1-0 to Orbit College in their second meeting. They also sit on just two points from three fixtures.

Both sides have conceded two goals in their three playoff games and scored only one, with each side’s goal coming in their first encounter which ended in a 1-1 draw.

WHAT WAS SAID

Cape Town City interim head coach Diogo Peral could not hide his disappointment following his team’s loss to Orbit College on Wednesday.

“What can we do? We had a lot of chances to put them away and we didn't do it,” Peral said.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Cape Town City: Emile Witbooi - As Cape Town City’s starboy, Emile Witbooi could be the point of difference on Monday through his ability to provide moments of magic on the pitch. Though lacking in experience, the youngster is touted as one of the country’s best emerging talents.

Casric Stars: Kermit Erasmus – 34-year-old Kermit Erasmus has extensive PSL experience, having played for Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns and Cape Town City. He will be the driving force for his side as he attempts to guide them to victory over his former club.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

Cape Town City and Casric Stars have met only once, drawing their previous playoff game 1-1 at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium on Wednesday 18 June.

Orbit College became the latest newcomer to the Betway Premiership this week, as the North West Province club topped the PSL Promotion mini-league table with a 1-0 victory against Cape Town City at the Olympia Park Stadium on Wednesday afternoon.

The result saw Orbit College move five points ahead of Casric Stars and Cape Town City in their fourth game, while the latter will face each other at the DHL Stadium on Monday.

History for Orbit College - they are coming up 🔥#SSDiski | #BetwayPrem pic.twitter.com/cr0XuZ5Leg

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) June 25, 2025

With City out of contention in the mini-league, the popular Western Cape outfit will now ply their trade in the Motsepe Foundation Championship alongside Casric Stars next season.

The game started at a slow pace at the Olympia Park Stadium, with City bossing the bulk of the possession count during the first 10 minutes. 

With the dust settling on the Rustenburg pitch, City battled to make the most of their chances going forward.

At the other end of the field, Orbit College often searched for opportunities on the counter attack and provided the City backline a few shaky moments as a result.

Orbit College grew in confidence midway through the first half with some of the players playing to the tune of the crowd.

While the tricks and flicks excited supporters, City were reduced to soaking up the home side’s relentless pressure all the way to the halftime whistle.

The Citizens suffered a major blow moments after the restart as Letsie Koapeng gave Orbit the lead in the 47th minute.

Assisted by Gomolemo Khoto, who did well to evade his marker on the left-hand side of the pitch, Koapeng’s tap in at the near post left Darren Keet rooted to the spot.

Olympia Park erupts 🥳🎉

Letsie Koapeng puts Orbit College within touching distance of #BetwayPrem promotion 👀

📺 Stream on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/1woAvrWcDZ

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) June 25, 2025

Following the introduction of Emile Witbooi and Fortune Makaringe, City looked revitalised going forward but were often met with aggressive defending by the home team.

With City seemingly running short of ideas during the last five minutes of the game, Orbit kicked into game-management mode by stroking the ball around with extra care.

Orbit College survived a late scare during stoppage time and ultimately secured the all-important victory at the Olympia Park Stadium.

Orbit College get the job done at Olympia Park 🙌

They will play #BetwayPrem football next season 👏👏#SSDiski pic.twitter.com/3nAb0KJldt

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) June 25, 2025

Orbit College: (0) 1 (Koapeng 47’)

Cape Town City: 0

Orbit College: Mokogisi, Matsemela (Thibedi 72’), Khoto, Jingana, Koapeng (Lukhele 77’), Vilakazi, Batsi, Nhlapo, Potsana, Mabele

Cape Town City: Keet, Ndlondlo, Gordinho, Fasika (Makaringe 59’), Mkhize, Petrus, Nodada, Rhodes (Serero 87’), Tjiueza (Witbooi 59’), Domingo (Goedeman 73’), Soukouna (Ahshene 87’)

Orbit College celebrated their elevation to the Betway Premiership with a deserved victory in the PSL’s Promotion/Relegation Playoffs.

But it many ways the hard work starts now as they must quickly build a squad capable of competing in the topflight.

Some players who helped them get there will be released as they bring in footballers who have the experience to keep them in the top-flight.

There have been a total of 11 clubs from the second tier of South African football who have won a place in the Betway Premiership through the playoffs.

SuperSport.com looks at what happened to those promoted teams once they had made their way up:

2004-05: Tembisa Classic: Promotion was won in what was then a four-team playoff with Classic beating Hellenic over two legs in the final to go up.

Classic were sold after only two months in the top-flight to Maritzburg United, who had to compete for the rest of that season as Maritzburg Classic before they could change their name.

2005-06: Benoni Premier United: Businessman Dumisani Ndlovu bought the franchise of Hellenic and had Benoni promoted by beating Vasco da Gama 1-0 on aggregate over two legs in their playoff final, scoring the winner four minutes from the end of the second leg.

In 2007 Benoni sold to Thanda Royal Zulu and the name change was agreed within weeks of the 2007-08 season kicking off.

2007-08: Bay United: They edged FC AK in their two-legged playoff final to gain promotion but they won only five matches in their debut top-flight campaign and finished bottom.

The costs of running the club proved too much for owner Sipho Pityana who sold it to Johnny Mogaladi, whose Polokwane City returned to the DStv Premiership this past season.

2008-09: Mpumalanga Black Aces: Won dramatically against Thanda Royal Zulu in the playoff final to go up but finished second last the next season and had to return to the playoffs, when they beat Black Leopards on penalties to keep up their top-flight status.

But they were relegated in 2011 when they finished last in the standings.

2010-11: Black Leopards: Beat Bay United in the playoff for promotion, returning to the Premiership for the first time since 2008 and staying up for two seasons, finishing 14th in 2012 and then last in 2013.

2011-12: Chippa United: Came up as the three-team playoffs were introduced for the first time, finishing top of the table ahead of Santos and Thanda Royal Zulu.

Chippa were immediately relegated back down again as they lost to Black Aces in the playoffs the next year.

2012-13: Mpumalanga Black Aces: Were back in the top-flight after a two-year hiatus, finishing three points ahead of Chippa United and six ahead of Santos in the playoffs.

Aces were seventh the next season, 10th the year after that and then fourth in 2016 before the franchise was sold to John Comitis and renamed Cape Town City.

2014-15: Jomo Cosmos: Won the playoff as they condemned Moroka Swallows to their first ever relegation but despite Jomo Sono’s promises that his team would never go down again, they went straight back to the National First Division the next season.

2015-16: Highlands Park: Romped through the playoffs against Mbombela United and relegated University of Pretoria to win their top-flight place but found it tough among the big boys and were immediately relegated, only to bounce back the following campaign.

2017-18: Black Leopards: Stayed in the top-flight for three seasons, finishing in 13th place twice in a row and then bottom.

2022-23: Cape Town Spurs: Stormed through the playoffs but then did not win any of their first eight Premiership games in 2023-24.

They were better in the second half of the campaign, but not good enough to stay up.

As the PSL promotion/relegation playoff heats up this week, Orbit College FC coach Pogiso Makhoye urged his side to remain calm when the two sides meet in their latest round-robin clash at the Olympia Park Stadium on Wednesday afternoon.

Kick-off is at 3pm (CAT, GMT+2)

CURRENT FORM

As it stands, Orbit College lead the way on the mini-league table after three matches played, while City trail their upcoming opponents by three points after two games.

Orbit came away with an important 1-0 win against Casric Stars last time out, as they became the first side to record maximum points in the mini-league.

While Orbit left the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium with smiles on their faces, City were left frustrated after their 1-1 draw with Casric Stars last time out.

WHAT WAS SAID

Reflecting on the task at hand, Orbit College FC coach Pogiso Makhoye feels that his side should remain calm while in search of promotion to the PSL.

“We need to remain calm. When things are going well for you, you just need to remain calm. We must not be excited, and complacency must never kick in because we will have a big game on Wednesday,” Makhoye said.

“It’s there for the taking. For now, we will let them celebrate because it’s the first time beating Casric. But we need to remain humble and calm, especially for that game against Cape Town City.”

Also, City assistant coach Roger De Sa believes that gaining a point against Casric was not a bad result amid a ‘long’ playoff fixture list.

“A point away from home wasn’t that bad but could have gotten more,” De Sa said.

“The Playoffs has [sic] been long, very much into next season, it's unpredictable and most playoffs are like that. There's two teams coming off a high and a Premier League team that’s coming off a low.

“We got to get over it and put us in a position to stay up.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Orbit College: Siyabulela Mabele – After getting his name on the scoresheet against Casric Stars last week, the Orlando Pirates loanee will be full of confidence heading into the next match. While City battle with a few defensive frailties of their own, Mabele will no doubt be a threat throughout the 90 minutes.

Cape Town City: Prins Tjiueza - Tjiueza has been a top performer for City during the playoffs, as seen with his instinctive goal against Casric Stars last week. The attacker will look to continue his positive showing in front of goal on Wednesday, as the club seek to do their best at remaining in the PSL next season.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

The teams drew 0-0 in their meeting at Cape Town Stadium on 14 June as part of the promotion/relegation playoff.

Orbit College FC boosted their Betway Premiership hopes after clinching a 1-0 victory over Casric Stars in the promotion playoffs at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium on Saturday.

The two Motsepe Foundation Championship rivals looked set to play out to another goalless draw when Lethabo Modimoeng popped up with the winning goal for Pogiso Makhoye's side 10 minutes from time.

It was Orbit's first win against Stars in six meetings and put them in the driver's seat to gain promotion to the top tier of South African football, as they moved on to five points in the mini table, three clear of the other two teams.

It's a huge three points in the race for #BetwayPrem promotion 🔥#SSDiski pic.twitter.com/bs38KsWchr

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) June 21, 2025

The North-West outfit had drawn their opening two playoff games without scoring, and they came under pressure in the first half as Joel Agoe fired just wide of the near post from a tight angle in the opening minute, before Simon Moukete volleyed over the target after connecting with a cross-field pass.

But Orbit held firm to ensure the score remained unchanged at the break and they had a golden chance to opening the scoring 10 minutes after the restart, when Siyabulela Mabele pounced on a stray pass and advanced into the box, but Emile Lako was equal to the task and made the save.

Ofentse Mothapo then squandered a glorious opportunity at the other end moments later, as he blazed over at the back post after making contact with a floating ball into the danger area.

With time running out, Stars made a slew of changes, bringing on Kermit Erasmus, Tlhalefang Kgabane and Loatlile Tlholoe.

However, the substitutions didn't have the desired impact, as it was the visitors who drew first blood four minutes later.

There was a bit of fortune in the goal, with Mabele's long-range shot taking a deflection off Modimoeng to wrong-foot Lako and end up in the back of the net.

Deflection and it's in 😲

Orbit College celebrate taking a late lead against Casric ⚽🔥

📺 Stream on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/HC5cpI9yFn

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) June 21, 2025

Modimoeng should have had a second at the death after finding himself clean through on goal, but he failed to beat Lako and it finished 1-0 in KwaMhlanga.

Casric Stars 0

Orbit College FC (0) 1 (Modimoeng 80')

CASRIC STARS: E. Lako, S. Mlilo, O. Mothapo (C. Tchouplaou 84'), L. Sebetlela, M. Thokolo, L. Lesako (M. Molaba 63'), J. Agoe (L. Tlholoe 77'), A. Seseane (T. Kgabane 76'), S. Moukete, T. Rakwena (K. Erasmus 76'), D. Chauke.

ORBIT COLLEGE FC: S. Moerane, H. Vilakazi, O. Mokgosi, T. Nhlapo, T. Jingana, M. Ubisi (T. Matsemela 21'), R. Potsana, A. Batsi, L. Modimoeng (Ngiba 90+3'), L. Koapeng, S. Mabele.

Casric Stars head coach Bucs Mthombeni is banking on their home form to put them in a strong position in the Betway Premiership promotion playoffs when Orbit College FC visit the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium on Saturday, June 21.

Kick-off is at 3pm CAT (SA, GMT+2)

CURRENT FORM:

Stars are unbeaten in their first two games, having played out to a 0-0 draw with their Motsepe Foundation Championship rivals on June 11 before battling back from behind to rescue a 1-1 draw against Cape Town City seven days later.

Sphamandla Mlilo's 97th-minute penalty was the first goal that the Mpumalanga outfit had scored in the playoffs after failing to find the back of the net in their four matches two years ago when their promotion challenge came up short.

Mthombeni's side finished the MFC campaign strongly on home soil, going undefeated in their last four outings and losing just three times all season in KwaMhlanga.

Orbit find themselves in a similar position, but they've yet to score any goals in the playoffs after their clash with the Citizens at the Cape Town Stadium on June 14 finished 0-0.

Their record against Stars doesn't make for good reading as Pogiso Makhoye's side have yet to come out on top in five meetings and they've only managed to score three goals in those head-to-head encounters, while conceding 11 in the process.

WHAT WAS SAID:

Casric Stars head coach Bucs Mthombeni:

"We will try by all means because we need Saturday's game to be a must-win, so that we put ourselves in a better position. Then the results will depend on Orbit's game against Cape Town City.

"It's gonna be difficult because Orbit is a team that moves the ball around, but we are gonna come at them like tigers and try to beat them.

"We've got a good record against them, but we're not gonna take that to our advantage, it's just that when we play at home, we play really well."

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Casric Stars - Decide Chauke was their best player on the pitch against City and can count himself unfortunate not to have gotten his name on the scoresheet. The winger forced Darren Keet to tip his shot over the crossbar in the opening minute and saw Siphamandla Dondolo clear his effort off the line on 74 minutes before sending an overhead-kick just over the goal in the 82nd minute.

Orbit College FC - Makhoye will be looking to the experienced Letsie Koapeng to get them over the line against Stars. The former Bidvest Wits and Orlando Pirates striker was heavily involved against City in the second half, creating a good chance for Ayanda Lukhele on 78 minutes before firing just wide of the right post on the volley two minutes later and glancing a header across the face of goal from a corner in the 85th minute.

HEAD-TO-HEAD:

Matches - 5

Casric Stars wins - 3

Orbit College wins - 0

Draws - 2

In what was yet another gruelling affair in the latest PSL playoff fixture, Casric Stars needed a stoppage time penalty to earn a point in a 1-1 draw with Cape Town City at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium on Wednesday afternoon.

While City worked hard to take the lead in the 26th minute, thanks to a reaching effort by Prins Tjiueza inside the area, Casric Stars drew level with minutes left on the clock as Sphamandla Mlilo held his nerve from the spot.

Late drama in Mpumalanga 🤯

Casric Stars convert the penalty to save a point at the death 🎯#PSLPromotionsPlayOffs | #SSDiski pic.twitter.com/eMnU6uiO8x

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) June 18, 2025

City played under the cosh during the first five minutes of the game and survived an early scare that required goalkeeper Darren Keet to pull off two consecutive saves to keep their scoreline intact.

The visitors were under more pressure during the opening quarter, given Casric Stars early push for a goal.

At the other end of the pitch, Jaedin Rhodes looked lively going forward and saw an early attempt drifting wide of the mark.

City managed to break the deadlock in the 26th minute as Tjiueza added his name to the scoreboard.

Following a free-kick outside the area, Thami Mkhize’s clever flick found the forward who guided the ball home from close range.

Cape Town City's set-piece gives them the half-time lead at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium 🔝🟣

📺 Stream #PSLPromotionPlayOffs on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/8rxeu5FjKd

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) June 18, 2025

With a goal to the good, City gained control of the match and saw out the half unscathed.

There was little action on both ends of the pitch after the restart, however, Casric Stars edged their opponents to the ball possession count leading up to the hour-mark.

While City kicked into game management mode, Casric pressed on in search of their opener and created more scoring opportunities as the 75th minute rolled on.

The Cape side looked dangerous at set-play situations and came close to doubling their lead after the hour-mark, this time with Nathan Fasika, who caused havoc around the 18-yard-area.

Then, as Casric had the last say in the encounter, the referee pointed to the spot after finding an infringement inside the box.

After stepping up to the spot, Mlilo did well to put the ball beyond Keet in goal.

Casric Stars claim an important point in the #PSLPromotionPlayOffs with two matches to play🍿#SSDiski pic.twitter.com/woL38whDIf

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) June 18, 2025

Diogo Peral and his charges will now face Orbit College on Wednesday, 25 June, while Casric are scheduled to face Orbit College on Saturday, 21 June.

Casric Stars: (0) 1 ( Mlilo 97’)

Cape Town City: (1) 1 (Tjiueza 26’

Casric Stars: Tcheuko, Chokoe (Mothapo 67’), Thokolo, Sebetlela, Kgabane (Moukete 66’), Mlilo, Samache (Molaba 67’), Chauke, Lesako (Erasmus 70’), Lekhatla (Seseane 57’), Rakwena

Cape Town City: Keet, Nodada, Gordinho, Donolo, Mkhize, Petrus, Tjiueza (April 61’), Francis (Amato 61’), Fasika, Rhodes (Ziba 78’), Domingo (Bezuidenhout 61’, Makaringe 95’)

In what has been a tense PSL Promotion Playoff battle so far, Cape Town City and Casric Stars will battle it out for top spot in the mini-league when the two sides take to the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium on Wednesday afternoon.

Kick-off is at 3pm (CAT, GMT+2).

CURRENT FORM

In a bid to remain in the PSL next season, the Citizens started their round-robin campaign in the playoffs with a 0-0 draw with Orbit College at the Cape Town Stadium last Saturday.

City dominated large parts of the encounter but were ultimately let down by blunt finishing in the final third. Casric Stars were likewise unable to record victory last time out, following their gruelling 0-0 stalemate with Orbit College on Wednesday, 11 June.

With no goals scored in the mini-league so far, Orbit College lead the way at the top of the table by single point, which could pave the way for City or Casric this week.

WHAT WAS SAID

Speaking after Casric’s latest result against Orbit, coach Joseph Mthembeni believes that maximum points would have put his side in a better position against City.

“I will take the points and go home,”Mthembeni said.

“I cannot complain, look, this is a mini-league. Points away, I think it's good, I just think we have to go home and grind more.

“It was better if I got three points to put myself in a better position."

On the other hand, Cape Town City assistant coach Diogo Peral is of the belief that Casric could present them with problems in Mpumalanga.

“It’s a different game, we are away from home, different teams, Casric are a lot more direct and are the kind of team we struggle against.

“We have to do our homework and make sure we go there and know what we are doing.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Casric Stars: Kermit Erasmus – As one of the most experienced players at Casric, Erasmus’ calm head will be needed on Wednesday. While Erasmus is known for his quality on the edge of the area, Casric Stars will most certainly rely on his leadership against the PSL quality outfit.

Cape Town City: Emile Witbooi – With Erasmus being the veteran in the Casric attacking department, Witbooi has emerged as one of South Africa’s best up-and-coming talents. Given his ability to produce moments of magic, Witbooi’s trickery and vision could separate the two sides on Wednesday.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

This will be the first meeting between Casric Stars and Cape Town City.

Cape Town City were held to a 0-0 draw by Orbit College in the PSL promotion/relegation playoffs match played at the DHL Cape Town Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The draw saw the Citizens begin their playoffs campaign with a draw after they failed to capitalise on their home ground advantage. The Western Cape side will now travel to Mpumalanga, where they will face Casric Stars on June 18.

Mswenko Boys, on the other hand, climbed to the top of the standings, having picked up two points from their first two games in the playoffs. The North West outfit will also be away to Casric Stars in their next game, which is scheduled for June 21.

The Citizens controlled the match from the start, with Haashim Domingo pulling the strings from midfield. The former Mamelodi Sundowns star set up Jody Ah Shene, who was superbly denied by goalkeeper Sekhoane Moerane at the near-post in the 24th minute.

Moerane was the busier of the two keepers as the Lesotho international was called into action in the 40th minute and this time he gathered an attempt from Prins Tjiueza. The score was 0-0 during the halftime break following a half that was dominated by City without scoring.

Cape Town City fail to capitalise on home advantage 🤝#SSDiski pic.twitter.com/fNVq4US6dC

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) June 14, 2025

The hosts made a double substitution before the second-half as Emile Witbooi and Thulani Serero came on for Ah Shene and Luyolo Slatsha. Witbooi came close to breaking the deadlock in the 52nd minute as the 16-year-old sensation's effort hit the crossbar.

The last real chance of the match fell for substitute Cee-Jay Bezuidenhout, whose effort was brilliantly saved by in-form Moerane in the 88th minute and the big save ensured that the match, which was dominated by City, ended in a 0-0 draw on the day.

City 0

Orbit 0

CITY: Keet, Fasika, Dondolo, Slatsha (Serero 46'), Ziba, Tijueza (Francis 75'), Rhodes (Bezuidenhout 80'), Amato, Domingo (Makaringe 66'), April, Ah Shene (Witbooi 46')

ORBIT: Moerane, Vilakazi, Jingana, Mokgosi, Nhlapo, Potsana, Batsi, Thibedi, Mabele, Khoto (Lukhele 72'), Koapeng (Matsemela 90'+3)

Cape Town City will be looking to start their PSL promotion/relegation playoffs campaign with a win over Orbit College at the DHL Cape Town Stadium on Saturday.

Kick-off is at 3pm CAT.

CURRENT FORM

The Citizens find themselves in the playoffs after finishing in the 15th spot in the Betway Premiership and they are now set to battle to retain their status in the South African top-flight.

City are coming into the playoffs undefeated in their last two matches, having secured a victory over Polokwane City before wrapping up their elite league campaign with a draw against Stellenbosch FC.

Meanwhile, Orbit began their playoffs campaign with a 0-0 draw against Casric Stars on 11 June, as they failed to capitalise on their home ground advantage at the Olympia Park in Rustenburg.

Therefore, Mswenko Boys are enjoying an eight-match unbeaten run, including Motsepe Foundation Championship games, having registered five victories and three draws coming into their clash with Cape Town City.

WHAT WAS SAID?

Cape Town City coach Diogo Peral

"We're planning for the play-offs, watching the opposition we'll be coming up against and we've already travelled to watch some of their games, so the planning is well on the way already," Peral said.

"It is what it is, and if we start with all the theories and negatives, it's not going to help us in the next game, the only thing we can do is what's in our hands, which is forget about all that and prepare as well as possible and put it all out there, and the rest takes care of itself."

Orbit College coach Pogiso Makhoye

"We (Cape Town City) don't know them, they don't know us. So the difference between us and the Betway Premiership is that they give you space. But here we knew each other (Orbit College and Casric Stars). We don't give you space [in the Motsepe Foundation Championship], every man is fighting for little space," Makhoye said.

"So, we will give a good account of ourselves when we go to Cape Town. We respect them, but in the field of play it will be 11 v 11. I think if we can correct some of the things we did today [against Casric Stars], especially converting our chances, we will stand a chance against them (City)."

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Darwin Gonzalez, Cape Town City: The Venezuelan attacker was the Citizens' main source of goals in the recent Betway Premiership season, as he netted four goals and he will carry their hopes of overcoming Orbit.

Siyabulela Mabele, Orbit College: The Orlando Pirates loanee was Mswenko Boys' top scorer in the Motsepe Foundation Championship with 10 goals and he will be determined to inspire his side to a win in Cape Town.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

This will be the first-ever meeting between Cape Town City and Orbit College.

Casric Stars' search for a goal in the promotion playoffs continues after they played out to a goalless draw with Orbit College FC at Olympia Park on Wednesday.

Bucs Mthombeni's side failed to get on the scoresheet in any of their four matches two years ago as their bid to gain promotion to the Betway Premiership fell flat on that occasion.

Stars had beaten Orbit in three of their previous four games and the last meeting between them in the Motsepe Foundation Championship ended in a 2-2 draw in February.

The visitors looked to the experience of Kermit Erasmus to help unlock the opposition defence, but the former Orlando Pirates striker couldn't make the desired impact and was substituted in the 54th minute.

Orbit made a bright start and threatened in the opening minute when Siyabulela Mabele pounced on a loose ball and tested Emile Lako with a fierce shot from inside the box.

Stars went close midway through the first half as Thabang Semache tried his luck from long range, but Sekhoane Moerane was equal to the task, pulling off a save at full stretch.

Moukete was alert to the danger once more just before halftime, palming a header from Simon Moukete behind for a corner.

But the two teams were more cautious in the second half as they looked to preserve clean sheets and neither goalkeeper was seriously tested.

Orbit College FC (0) 0

Casric Stars (0) 0

Orbit College FC: S. Moerane, T. Nhlapo, S. Mabele, R. Potsana, A. Batsi, T. Jingana, H. Vilakazi, L. Koapeng (G. Khoto 46'), L. Modimoeng (A. Lukhele 73'), T. Matsemela (G. Thibedi 73'), O. Mokgosi.

Casric Stars: E. Lako, M. Thokolo, M. Chokoe, L. Sebetlela, S. Mlilo, T. Semache (L. Tlholoe 67'), J. Agoe, D. Chauke (A. Seseane 85'), K. Erasmus (T. Kgabane 54'), T. Rakwena, S. Moukete.

Casric Stars assistant coach Thabo Nthethe believes they have learned from their previous playoff experience ahead of the promotion clash with Orbit College FC at Olympia Park on Wednesday.

Kick-off is at 3pm CAT (SA, GMT+2)

CURRENT FORM:

Stars were also vying for promotion to the Betway Premiership in 2022-23 after finishing third in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, but they lost all four matches without scoring a single goal.

Bucs Mthombeni's side have since addressed those issues, bringing in Decide Chauke from Chippa United in August last year and the striker scored eight goals this season to add to the 14 he bagged last term.

Kermit Erasmus was also signed in January and the former Orlando Pirates man scored the all-important goal against Hungry Lions on the final day of the campaign to seal a 2-1 win as Stars pipped Black Leopards to third place.

The Mpumalanga outfit went unbeaten in their final four games, having also beaten Leopards (2-1) while they drew with Venda FC (1-1) and Cape Town Spurs (0-0).

Orbit were the closest challengers to Durban City, but ultimately finished five points behind the champions after being held to a 0-0 draw by Leruma United on the final day.

Pogiso Makhoye's side clinched second spot thanks to a strong finish which saw them win four of their last five outings and lose just twice since the start of 2025.

Stars won their first meeting of the season 2-0 on home soil in September before sharing the spoils in a 2-2 draw four months later.

🚨 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐅𝐈𝐑𝐌𝐄𝐃: 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐒𝐋 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲-𝐨𝐟𝐟 𝐟𝐢𝐱𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 🚨 pic.twitter.com/CSKuFIPdtf

— Official PSL (@OfficialPSL) June 5, 2025

WHAT WAS SAID:

Casric Stars assistant coach Thabo Nthethe:

"The boys are excited to be a part of the playoffs this season. We are where we are because we want promotion. This is our opportunity to showcase ourselves, and if we win the mini tournament, we'll go through. It's another chance.

"Last time, we didn't score a single goal. We had no energy and as a team we simply didn't do enough. If we want promotion, we have to score goals - and we didn't manage that.

"Kermit [Erasmus] has been brilliant for us and helped us qualify for the playoffs. We've got quality strikers who can get us goals and with the experience from last season, I expect us to do much better this time."

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Orbit College FC - Siyabulela Mabele was instrumental in the team's promotion push, scoring 10 goals although the winger has yet to find the back of the net against Stars.

Casric Stars - Decide Chauke led the charge for Stars, bagging eight goals, but they dried up towards the end of the campaign, with his last one coming in the 1-1 draw with Baroka on 11 April.

HEAD-TO-HEAD:

Matches - 4

Orbit College wins - 0

Casric Stars wins - 3

Draws - 1

Richards Bay have retained their DStv Premiership status after crushing Baroka FC 4-0 in the final PSL Promotion Playoff match at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Wednesday afternoon.

The Natal Rich Boyz claimed an emphatic win thanks to a brace of fine goals from Somila Ntsundwana, a deflected strike by Sanele Barns, and a ‘coup de grâce’ from Lwandile Mabuya in the dying minutes.

Bay finished 15th (second from bottom) on the DStv Premiership in 2023-24 and found themselves in a three-way scrap against the University of Pretoria and Baroka in the Playoffs, but they were able to go unbeaten through the four matches and recorded eight points to finish top of the log and ensure that they will play top-flight football again next season.

𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐬 𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐝!

Richards Bay will be playing in the 2024/2025 #DStvPrem following a 4-0 win against Baroka which sees them finish top of the Promotion Playoff table ✅ pic.twitter.com/K63DiS5hlu

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) June 19, 2024

Richards Bay created early chances for Sanele Barns and Yanela Mbuthuma inside the opening 10 minutes, the first of which was dragged wide, while the second drew a sharp save from Baroka goalkeeper Katlego Molefe.

On 25 minutes the visitors should have claimed the lead, with Khomotjo Lekoloane doing great work down the left before providing a cross which saw Siyabonga Mtombeni fluff a chance, before Kabelo Kgosietsile failed to hit the target from the resulting loose ball.

The hosts went ahead in the 37th minute, with Mbuthuma setting up Somila Ntsundwana, who knocked the ball up in the air before scoring with an acrobatic volley from a few metres out.

And six minutes later Bay’s lead was doubled in fortuitous circumstances, as Barns’s shot direct from a free kick took a deflection off the defensive wall and found the back of the net – with Molefe left helpless by the change of trajectory.

The start of the second half saw both teams make a change, with Thabani Gumede replacing Thato Mohamme for Bay, while Baroka swopped out Mtombeni for Dan Ndhlovu.

The Natal Rich Boyz made it 3-0 shortly after the hour mark, with Ntsundwana showing great speed and strength to hold off a defender before firing a left-footed shot beyond Molefe to effectively end the game as a contest.

And they added a fourth goal late on, with Lwandile Mabuya running onto a loose ball in the box, after Molefe had made a fine save to keep out a low shot from Khuda Muyaba, and firing home in the 85th minute to round out a 4-0 triumph.

Bay will therefore play in the DStv Premiership for a third successive season, while Baroka will remain in the Motsepe Foundation Championship – also for a third successive season.

Richards Bay (2) 4 (Ntsundwana 37’ 62’, Barns 43’, Mabuya 85’)

Baroka FC 0

BAY: Magoola, Mabuya, Mthethwa, Mcineka (Dube 57’), Mabua, Mthembu, Malepe, Mohamme (Gumede 46’), Barns (Figuareido 68’), Ntsundwana (Makhubela 68’), Mbuthuma (Muyaba 68’)

BAROKA: Molefe, Madingwane, Mashiloane, Mathiane, Gebhardt, Sikhosana, Malivha (Nyundu 74’), Lekoloane, Sithole, Kgosietsile (Mogale 68’), Mtombeni (Ndhlovu 46’)

University of Pretoria will take on Richards Bay in their final match of the PSL promotion playoffs on Saturday afternoon at the Tuks Stadium in Pretoria.

Kick-off is at 15:00 CAT (SA, GMT+2)

CURRENT FORM

Tuks have played three matches in the playoffs and won their first match against Baroka, lost the second against Richards Bay and drew the third against Baroka when they faced them again.

Tuks are second in the PSL promotion playoffs table and a win is needed to keep their hopes of moving back into the top flight alive as their opponents have a game in hand.

As for Richards Bay, they are at the top of the table having played two matches, playing to a goalless draw against Baroka and picking up three points in the other against Tuks.

WHAT WAS SAID

Tlisane Motaung, the coach of Tuks, is confident that his team will secure a victory against the Natal Rich Boyz. This fixture is a must-win for them in their hopes of being promoted.

“We still have one match that we are playing at home against Richards Bay, it won’t be easy. We have to go in and fight. It’s now or never,” said Motaung.

“We find ourselves in this situation and the only thing we need in the next game at home is three points.”

“At least we have a home-ground advantage, and we will take it from there.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Kamogelo Pheeane, University of Pretoria - The 24-year-old centre-forward scored in the team’s victory against Baroka and will be hoping to replicate the same form in this crucial encounter. He scored two goals in the National First Division and will need his shooting boots ready.

Somila Ntsundwana, Richards Bay - Having scored the last time these two sides faced each other, all eyes will be on the 27-year-old forward to bring his A-game once again.

Two thirds of the way through the Premier Soccer League’s Promotion/Relegation Play-Offs this season and it is looking like ‘advantage Richards Bay’ as they seek to become the fifth topflight team in six seasons to retain their elite league status.

With four of the six matches played, Richards Bay have four points (+1 goal-difference), as do University of Pretoria (+0), while Baroka FC trail on two points (-1).

But Richards Bay have a game in hand and will retain their status if they beat AmaTuks away from home on Saturday.

A draw would be enough too as long as they don’t then lose their final game against Baroka FC next Wednesday by two goals or more.

Since the 2018/19 season, only Cape Town Spurs in the last campaign managed to win the Play-Offs as a second-tier side, with the post-season competition dominated by DStv Premiership clubs.

That is a somewhat recent change. It used to be that the Play-Offs were ruled by teams from the NFD as they pummeled demoralised topflight sides at the end of a long season.

They went into the Play-Offs with momentum from a strong league campaign, while the opposite was true for the DStv Premiership outfits, who had largely had a campaign filled with defeats.

RECENT HISTORY FAVOURS PREMIER TEAMS

In the first 14 Play-Off tournaments since the system was introduced in 2004/05‚ just four teams from the top tier managed to retain their status. But the last four have all been won by DStv Premiership teams, and comfortably so.

That record stretches to five of the last six seasons having seen Premiership sides successful, the odd one out being Platinum Stars in 2017/18.

When the Play-Offs were first introduced, they were played between four sides‚ 15th in the top-flight and three teams from the NFD‚ paired off into two-legged semifinals and a final. The format was changed to the current one in 2012.

Manning Rangers finished 15th in the Absa Premiership in the 2004/05 season and were entered into the first-ever Play-Offs‚ but came unstuck at the semifinal stage‚ losing 6-3 on aggregate to the now defunct Hellenic.

In the 2005/06 campaign‚ Umtata Buch Bucks had to fight for survival‚ but also did not even make the final‚ losing both legs to Vasco da Gama for a 4-1 aggregate score.

AmaZulu bucked the trend when they beat FC AK 4-1 on aggregate in the semifinals‚ before completing a 3-1 success over University of Pretoria to become the first top-flight side to retain their status via the Play-Offs.

Black Leopards were not so lucky‚ they lost their 2007/08 semifinal to Bay United‚ going down 2-1 on aggregate to drop a division.

Thanda Royal Zulu made the Play-Off final the following season in 2008/09‚ but could not keep their top-flight status in the end. They defeated FC Cape Town in the semis‚ before losing 3-0 to Mpumalanga Black Aces on aggregate in the final.

Black Aces then became the second top-flight side to retain their place in the Premiership via the Play-Offs when they competed in the post-season competition.

They beat Nathi Lions 4-2 in the semifinals and Black Leopards 5-3 on penalties in the final after their tie had finished 3-3 on aggregate. It is the most nail-biting Play-Off final to date.

But normal order was resumed in 2010/11 as Vasco da Gama could not retain their top-flight status and lost in the semifinals 4-2 on aggregate to Black Leopards‚ who went on to beat Bay United in the final.

Santos finished bottom of the mini-league as the format changed in 2012‚ managing just two draws in their four games.

But Polokwane City showed the way with a commanding performance a year later as they took 10 points from a possible 12 and beat off Black Leopards and Milano United for top spot.

Moroka Swallows finished bottom of the league that also contained Jomo Cosmos and Leopards in 2014/15‚ before AmaTuks did likewise in the next campaign as they capitulated with no wins from their four games.

But then began a change of fortunes for top-tier teams. Baroka FC retained their status as they saw off Stellenbosch FC and Leopards, before the latter did claim Play-Off victory the following year.

Maritzburg United won all four of their games in the 2018/19 season for a full haul of 12 points against TTM and Royal Eagles, as did Leopards the following campaign as suddenly it became extremely difficult for second-tier sides.

In 2020/21 the playoffs were a bit of a farce as Royal AM refused to take part as they believed they were league winners, leaving only Chippa United and Richards Bay to compete. Chippa got a win and a draw to retain their topflight status.

It was Swallows FC who had to run the gauntlet in the 2021/22 season and they came out on top, beating University of Pretoria and Cape Town All Stars with seven points from a possible 12.

Spurs bucked the trend last year when they managed 10 points against demorilised topflight side Marumo Gallants, who just weeks earlier had been in a CAF Confederation Cup semifinal, and Casric Stars.

But it looks as though it may be ‘normal service resumed’ in the current campaign.

Baroka FC and Richards Bay played out a goalless stalemate in a PSL Playoff match at the Global Stadium in Lebowakgoma on Saturday afternoon.

The result leaves the Natal Rich Boyz at the top of the three-team log with four points after two complete rounds.

The University of Pretoria have three points and Bakgaga have one point.

Richards Bay established themselves as the dominant force in the match, but had to wait until the 28th minute to offer a genuine threat at goal, with Somila Ntsundwana doing great work down the left flank before being denied from a tight angle by Baroka goalkeeper Katlego Molefe.

The hosts enjoyed a fair amount of the ball, but lacked any real attacking penetration.

Bay were happy to concede space down the flanks, confident that a packed central defence could cut out any potential service to Sekela Sithole and Siyabonga Mtombeni.

Goalless at the break, Baroka gave it 10 minutes of the second half before swopping out Tshediso Patjie in favour of rising star Khomotso Lekoloane.

Bay made a double change on the hour mark, with Justice Figuareido and Khuda Muyaba coming off the bench, and they soon came close to breaking the deadlock via Sanele Barns, who was denied by a fine save from Molefe.

Bakgaga’s Lekoloane had his team’s best goal attempt on 78 minutes, driving a long-range effort narrowly off target, as the hosts became increasingly desperate to force the issue.

And the Natal Rich Boyz nearly snatched a goal at the other end five minutes later, with Figuareido latching onto a loose ball in the penalty area and driving a low effort on target, but Molefe was once again equal to the task.

Ultimately the teams settled for a share of the spoils – a valuable away points for Richards Bay in their attempt to retain their top-flight status, while the hosts will feel a sense of an opportunity having slipped away.

The next PSL Playoff fixture sees Baroka host the University of Pretoria at the Global Stadium on Wednesday afternoon (12 June).

Baroka FC 0

Richards Bay 0

Baroka: Molefe, Mashiloane, Mathiane, Nonyane, Kgosietsile (Ndhlovu 73’), Sikhosana, Malivha, Madingwane, Patjie (Lekoloane 55’), Sithole (Selemela 82’), Mtombeni (Mogale 82’)

Richards Bay: Magoola, Mabuya, Mthethwa, Mcineka, Mabua, Malepe, Mthembu (Myaba 60’), Dlamini, Barns, Ntsundwana (Gumede 82’), Mbuthuma (Figuareido 60’)

Richards Bay FC will chase a second win in the PSL Promotion Playoffs when they face hosts Baroka FC at the Global Stadium in Lebowakgomo on Saturday afternoon.

Kick-off is at 3pm CAT (SA, GMT+2).

MATCH BACKGROUND

Richards Bay got their playoff campaign off to a perfect start on Wednesday when they defeated University of Pretoria 1-0 at the King Zwelithini Stadium – courtesy of a strike midway through the first half from Somila Ntsundwana.

The result saw the Natal Rich Boyz join AmaTuks on three points at the top of the log, as the Pretoria club defeated Baroka FC 1-0 in Tshwane this past Sunday.

Kamogelo Pheeane scored late in the game to give the hosts all three points.

This leaves Bakgaga at the bottom of the log with zero points and in need of a positive result to keep their hopes of returning to the DStv Premiership alive.

And the Limpopo club have already taken a drastic step by suspending coach Dan Malisela for the remainder of the playoffs and replacing him with Morgan Mammila.

PREVIOUS MEETINGS

This will be the first meeting of Richards Bay and Baroka FC.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Richards Bay – Somila Ntsundwana

The 27-year-old forward scored the only goal as Richards Bay defeated University of Pretoria in their opening playoff match, and he will be keen to continue his form and ensure that the Natal Rich Boyz are able to maintain their top-flight status.

Baroka FC – Sekela Sithole

If Baroka’s attack is to be sparked into life, Sekela Sithole is the man most likely to do it. The Bakgaga number 10 has the skills and vision to harm Richards Bay’s defence and will be hoping to inspire his side to a first win in the Playoffs.

WHAT THE TEAMS ARE SAYING

Richards Bay coach Vusumuzi Vilakazi on whether Baroka FC’s coaching change will negatively affect their preparations:

“I wouldn’t agree that this [coaching change] damaged them because It’s a coaching department that got disturbed,” Vilakazi said. “But the very same players are still there, and we cannot undermine them or take them for granted that they have lost the game against AmaTuks.

“Actually they are the ones who are dangerous because they are desperate to get the three points. So, they will make things difficult for us, a proper planning against them will be key, we can’t undermine them.”

Baroka FC marketing manager Richard Mashabane on their coaching change:

“Mammila's mandate is to help us qualify [from] the playoffs. We have not discussed contract issues and everything at the moment. We just asked him to take the team to the DStv Premiership and the rest will be discussed after the playoffs.”

 With both the DStv Premiership and Motsepe Foundation Championship having come to an end, with Sundowns and Magesi being crowned champions respectively, there is still one more premiership spot up for grabs.

Three teams are set to battle it out for that all-important spot in a home and away round robin format featuring The University of Pretoria, Baroka FC and Richards Bay.

AmaTuks and Baroka FC, who finished second and third respectively in the Motsepe Foundation, will battle it out against the Natal Rich Boys who finished 15th in the Premiership.

HOW THE PSL PROMOTION PLAYOFFS DRAW PROCEDURE WORKED

The three clubs were allocated as follows: club one is the one that finished 15th in the DStv Premiership. Clubs two and three are the two Motsepe Foundation Championship sides.

FULL FIXTURE LIST:

Sunday, 2 June: AmaTuks v Baroka FC [Richards Bay Club – bye]

Wednesday, 5 June: Richards Bay v AmaTuks, [Baroka – bye]

Saturday, 8 June: Baroka FC v DStv Premiership Club, [AmaTuks – bye]

Wednesday, 12 June: Baroka FC v AmaTuks, [Richards Bay – bye]

Saturday, 15 June: AmaTuks v Richards Bay, [Baroka – bye]

Wednesday, 19 June: Richards Bay v Baroka FC, [AmaTuks – bye].

PSL PROMOTION/RELEGATION PLAYOFF WINNERS

2004-05 – Tembisa Classic (NFD)

2005-06 – Benoni Premier United (NFD)

2006-07 – AmaZulu (Premiership)

2007-08 – Bay United (NFD)

2008-09 – Mpumalanga Black Aces (NFD)

2009-10 – Mpumalanga Black Aces (Premiership)

2010-11 – Black Leopards (NFD)

2011-12 – Chippa United (NFD)

2012-13 – Mpumalanga Black Aces (NFD)

2013-14 – Polokwane City (Premiership)

2014-15 – Jomo Cosmos (NFD)

2015-16 – Highlands Park (NFD)

2016-17 – Baroka FC (Premiership)

2017-18 – Black Leopards (NFD)

2018-19 – Maritzburg United (Premiership)

2019-20 – Black Leopards (Premiership)

2020-21 – Chippa United (Premiership)

2021-22 – Swallows FC

2022-23 – Cape Town Spurs

After a thrilling 0-0 stalemate with Maritzburg United at the Harry Gwala Stadium on Wednesday night, Cape Town Spurs booked their spot in next season’s DStv Premiership following the conclusion of the PSL promotion playoffs.

Going into the game, Spurs required just one point against the Team of Choice to ensure top flight status for next season. As a whole, the Urban Warriors capped off an impressive promotion bid with three wins and one draw in four encounters.

In turn, Maritzburg United were relegated to the Motsepe Foundation Championship.

???????? ???????? ?????????? ???????? ???? ?????????????? ???? ??????#????????????????

One month on since missing out automatic promotion, they get the job done ??????

Maritzburg have been relegated to the Motsepe Foundation Championship ? pic.twitter.com/iy3WxXkI2e

— SuperSport Football ?? (@SSFootball) June 14, 2023

?? “IYAHAAAAAMBA i-Maritzburg.”

The scenes at full-time narrated by @mapensela11 as Cape Town Spurs secured promotion back to the top-flight ?? pic.twitter.com/NlNXRbnPh7

— SuperSport Football ?? (@SSFootball) June 14, 2023

The game got off to a frantic start, as a scrap for the ball broke out in the middle of the park. With Maritzburg and Spurs feeling each other out, crunching tackles and quick pressing from both teams set the early pace of the tie.

With the dust beginning to settle, the Team of Choice and Urban Warriors looked to build play from defensive positions, with the Mother City outfit seeing slightly more of the ball during the first 15 minutes of the counter.

While there were no clear attempts at goal midway through the first half, the game proved to be a prickly affair with the referee often called upon to diffuse heated situations.

The Team of Choice began seeing more of the ball after the half-hour mark and often took the direct route in looking to breach the Spurs backline. Not sitting back, Spurs hurried the opposition in turnover situations and pressed high up the pitch.

Nevertheless, Maritzburg and Spurs went into the break with the scores deadlocked at 0-0.

Both Maritzburg and Spurs maintained their spiky approach to the game at the beginning of the second half and did not hold back from making their presence felt in tackles.

The Urban Warriors endured an early stint of pressure in the subsequent half as the Team of Choice troubled the travelling side’s defence with teasing balls into the penalty area.

Maritzburg gained control of the encounter after the hour mark and penned Spurs back onto the edge of their 18-yard-area.

Under the cosh for the majority of the second 45, it took doggish defending from Spurs to remain in the game as the clock reached the 75th minute.

Maritzburg piled on the pressure without 10 minutes left on the clock and produced several goal-scoring opportunities in the process. However, Spurs sat tight and continued to soak up the home team’s pressure.

In the end, it was not to be for the home side, as Spurs managed to withstand Maritzburg’s mounting pressure to record a 0-0 stalemate at the Harry Gwala Stadium.

? Gratitude
? Faith
? Family
? Celebrations

An emotional Shaun Bartlett lets it all out in this post-match interview ??

???????? ?????? ???? ?? ????????-?????????? ?? pic.twitter.com/DA04xAr9lu

— SuperSport Football ?? (@SSFootball) June 14, 2023

Maritzburg United 0

Cape Town Spurs 0

MARITZBURG UNITED: Leaner, Cross, Makume, De Goede (Meza 65’) , Njoti (Tlolane 45’), Human (van der Ross 90’), Palace, Kimvuidi, Theron, Soukouna, Peprah

CAPE TOWN SPURS: Vyver, Dortley, Daniels, Brown, Allie, Morton (Phewa 65’), Nel, Stander, Moroole (Ngobe 85’), Butsaka (Velebayi 65’), Moosa (Ryan 76’)