Kaizer Chiefs return to Betway Premiership action with narrow win

South Africa’s Betway Premiership continued its return to action this week with Kaizer Chiefs and Stellenbosch FC securing narrow 1-0 victories.

Defender Aden McCarthy’s first goal at senior level confirmed three points for AmaKhosi in a 1-0 victory over Golden Arrows at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg. McCarthy stooped down to nod in the final touch after a free kick service from the left wing was headed on goal by Makabi Lilepo in the 39th minute.

It was a strong start for Chiefs, but poor finishing kept their supporters in suspense and the result could have gone another way after a better performance from Arrows after halftime. Manqoba Mngqithi’s side nearly equalized in the 71st minute after a remarkable display of dribbling from Siyanda Ndlovu. But after darting his way past multiple defenders, the forward’s shot went off the post and wide.

Chiefs move into third place on the Betway Premiership table after Sekhukhune United fell to Stellenbosch in a match played at the same time on Tuesday. New loan signing Tshegofatso Mabasa enjoyed a dream debut after joining from Orlando Pirates by scoring a first half match winner at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.

Stellies winger Devon Titus set up Mabasa and the poacher did just enough to finish, giving his new club a much needed victory. After a very difficult start to the 2025-26 campaign and the departure of long time head coach Steve Barker to Tanzania’s Simba SC, the victory will give experienced coach Gavin Hunt and his 13th place side momentum as they plot to move up the table in the second half of the season.

On Monday, reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns marked the return of league action in 2026 with a victory over Orbit College. TS Galaxy will host Marumo Gallants in Wednesday’s only match before the league returns with more fixtures on Friday.

Betway Premiership Table (Top-8)

Chiefs are up to third on the #BetwayPrem table as it stands 👀📈

📺 Stream on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/m7cvp0ojPk

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) January 20, 2026