The 2025/26 Motsepe Foundation Championship kicked off in style this past weekend, with drama from Friday through Sunday.
On Friday afternoon, Gomora United opened their campaign with a narrow 1–0 win over Leicesterford City, while Highbury FC and the University of Pretoria shared the spoils in a 1–1 draw.
Saturday’s action saw Cape Town City and Venḓa Football Club play out a goalless stalemate, before Casric Stars stunned Black Leopards 3–0 in Ṱhohoyanḓou. Milford FC edged newcomers Lerumo Lions 1–0, and Upington City lit up the day with a thrilling 4–2 victory over Kruger United.
On Sunday, Midlands Wanderers marked their arrival with a solid 1–0 win over Hungry Lions at Harry Gwala Stadium, while The Bees fought back to defeat Baroka FC 2–1 in Kanyamazane.
Full Matchday 1 Results:
Gomora United 1–0 Leicesterford City
Highbury FC 1–1 University of Pretoria
Cape Town City 0–0 Venda FC
Black Leopards 0–3 Casric Stars
Milford FC 1–0 Lerumo Lions
Upington City 4–2 Kruger United
Midlands Wanderers 1–0 Hungry Lions
The Bees 2–1 Baroka FC
With the opening round complete, Casric Stars, Milford, Upington City, Midlands Wanderers, The Bees, and Gomora United all claimed maximum points, while others will regroup for matchday two.
