CAF Semifinal Success Threatens Completion of Betway Premiership Season

The remarkable achievements of Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and Stellenbosch FC in progressing to the semifinals of CAF club competitions have put a significant strain on the completion of the Betway Premiership season. As the three South African clubs advance to the final stages of the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup, the domestic league schedule faces major disruptions, particularly given the tight fixture congestion.

Sundowns, Pirates, and Stellies in Semifinals

Both Sundowns and Pirates have reached the semifinals of the prestigious CAF Champions League, while Stellenbosch is at the same stage in the Confederation Cup. These advances come with a new set of challenges, particularly concerning domestic football.

Sundowns, fresh from their success in the group stages, will face the formidable Al Ahly on April 18 in Pretoria before traveling to Cairo for the second leg on April 25. Similarly, Orlando Pirates will face Pyramids FC on the same dates, starting in South Africa before traveling to Egypt for their return leg.

Meanwhile, Stellenbosch is set to meet Simba SC in Tanzania on April 19, with the second leg in Cape Town on April 26. Should Stellenbosch advance to the final, they will play the first leg on May 16 and the second leg on May 24, with a potential final against either CS Constantine from Algeria or RS Berkane from Morocco.

Impact on Domestic Fixtures

The timing of these international commitments raises serious concerns about the Betway Premiership’s ability to finish its season on schedule. With several of these clubs deeply involved in continental competitions, local fixtures are likely to be postponed or rescheduled.

For instance, Sundowns will be playing their crucial Nedbank Cup semifinal against Kaizer Chiefs on Sunday, followed by the first leg against Al Ahly just a few days later. After returning from Cairo, Sundowns will have a packed schedule, with seven league matches remaining in just five weeks. This could result in complications if they make it to both the CAF Champions League final (May 23 and May 31) and the Nedbank Cup final (May 10).

Pirates’ Tough Road Ahead

Orlando Pirates’ situation is even more complex. With 10 league games remaining, the club faces a daunting schedule, not only due to their continental commitments but also the domestic fixtures. They will likely not be able to play any local league matches until after their return from Cairo, as they are scheduled to meet Magesi FC on April 30 and then face their fierce rivals, Kaizer Chiefs, in the Soweto Derby on May 3.

After that, Pirates will have to complete their league fixtures in May, potentially having to juggle finals in both the CAF Champions League and the Nedbank Cup, if they progress in both tournaments.

The Uncertainty of Royal AM’s Situation

Adding to the calendar chaos is the unresolved issue surrounding Royal AM. With all their games suspended until further notice, this has caused further uncertainty and has the potential to create more disruption for the domestic league schedule.

Potential Solutions and Outlook

The current congestion caused by South African clubs’ success in Africa presents a dilemma for the Betway Premiership. The league must find a way to accommodate these teams’ continental commitments while ensuring the completion of the domestic season. It may require rescheduling some matches or extending the season to ensure all fixtures are played.

South African clubs’ continental triumphs have certainly brought the country much pride, but their success could lead to a tight squeeze for the remainder of the domestic campaign. With international fixtures and possible finals looming, both Sundowns and Pirates face the delicate task of balancing their African aspirations with their local responsibilities.