PSL confirms play-offs, seals CT City's fate after legal battles

The Citizens. Photo credit: Cape Town City

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has announced the details for the Promotional/Relegation Play-offs, bringing an end to weeks of uncertainty caused by various arbitration and legal challenges.

This announcement by the PSL also confirmed Cape Town City FC's participation, setting the stage for their battle to retain top-flight status.

The play-offs, initially slated to commence on May 27th, were put on hold due to disputes primarily involving Motsepe Foundation Championship winners Durban City FC. JDR Stars and Cape Town Spurs had lodged complaints against Durban City, alleging that they improperly fielded player Saziso Magawana.

However, the Court of Arbitration has since dismissed both cases, officially crowning Durban City as the NFD champions after their trophy handover was put on hold pending resolution.

Adding to the complexity, Cape Town City FC themselves challenged the league's decision to allow SuperSport United and Golden Arrows to complete a league match that was postponed three months prior. The fixture at Lucas Moripe Stadium had been halted at half-time due to load shedding. SuperSport and Arrows ultimately played the remaining 45 minutes last Thursday, with the match concluding in a 1-1 draw.

This result saw Matsatsantsa collect a crucial point, moving them to 14th position on the league table, while Cape Town City dropped to the 15th spot, consequently relegating them to the play-offs. The Cape Town-based side argued that PSL rules stipulate such matches should be completed within 48 hours, with the same playing and coaching personnel.

While CT City's case was reportedly heard today, Wednesday, June 4, 2025, it appears the arbitration has ruled against the John Comitis-owned team, paving the way for the play-offs to proceed as planned.

On Wednesday, the PSL announced that the play-offs will officially kick off on June 11th, with a fixture between Casric Stars and Orbit College FC at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium.

The Promotional/Relegation Play-offs are set to conclude on June 28th, with the team finishing at the summit of the mini-league securing the final spot in the Premiership for the upcoming season.

PSL PLAYOFFS FIXTURES, VENUES AND KICKOFF TIME CONFIRMED

PSL Promotion Playoffs fixtures. Photo credit: PSL