2025/26 PSL fixtures: Soweto Derby, Cup finals-season end dates revealed

The 2025/26 PSL season is set to ignite on the weekend of August 2nd, with the highly anticipated draft fixture list now circulated to member clubs, offering a comprehensive look at the football calendar.

As reported by Pan-Africa Football, the action kicks off with the thrilling MTN8 fixtures.

Fans can already mark their calendars for a season packed with crucial dates. The first piece of silverware, the MTN8 Final, is slated for Saturday, September 13th. Following swiftly, the Carling Knockout competition will commence on the weekend of October 4th, providing a burst of domestic action just before the FIFA International break.

The rivalry between the league’s powerhouses will be ignited early, as the first showdown between Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates is scheduled for Saturday, November 1st, with the return fixture set for Saturday, January 31st.

A significant pause in play is on the horizon, as the league will observe a month-long break between December 21st, 2025, and January 20th, 2026, to accommodate the Africa Cup of Nations. Before this hiatus, however, the Carling Knockout Final is pencilled in for Saturday, December 6th, followed by the Carling Cup a week later, promising a festive season of football.

As the new year dawns, the prestigious Nedbank Cup will begin its journey on Saturday, February 7th, 2026, with the Last 32 round.

Perhaps the most eagerly awaited dates for many are the Soweto Derbies. The first clash between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates is set to electrify the FNB Stadium on Saturday, February 28th, 2026, with Chiefs playing host. The return fixture, another must-see encounter, will take place on Saturday, April 25th, 2026.

The domestic season will then draw to a close with the 2026 Nedbank Cup Final on Saturday, May 2nd. The curtain will officially fall on the Betway Premiership season on May 23rd. The drama won’t end there for some clubs, as the PSL Promotion Playoffs are scheduled to run from May 26th until Saturday, June 13th, 2026, determining which teams will secure their place in the top flight.

Beyond the major cup and derby dates, the opening weekend of the Betway Premiership also promises exciting matchups. Reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns will be hosted by Chippa United at Buffalo City Stadium.

On Saturday, August 9th, AmaZulu will kick off against newly promoted Orbit College at Moses Mabhida, while Polokwane City faces Magesi at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, and Richards Bay takes on Marumo Gallants at uMhlanthuze Sports Complex.

Later that day, Orlando Pirates will host Sekhukhune United at Orlando Stadium, followed by Siwelele FC and Golden Arrows at Lucas Moripe Stadium. Sunday, August 10th, will see TS Galaxy begin their campaign against Motsepe Foundation Championship title winners Durban City, led by four-time league winner Gavin Hunt, at Mbombela Stadium. The opening round concludes with a major fixture for the Mother City as Stellenbosch goes up against Kaizer Chiefs at Athlone Stadium.

It’s important to note that these drafted fixtures were sent to the clubs via an NSL communique, and as such, they remain subject to change.

FIRST ROUND OF THE BETWAY PREMIERSHIP GAMES