Shock Prediction Emerges Ahead of Crucial PSL Promotion/Relegation Play-Offs

With just over 24 hours remaining before the highly anticipated PSL promotion/relegation play-offs kick off, a surprising prediction has surfaced regarding which team could triumph in the mini-league and secure a coveted spot in South Africa’s top-flight football.

Cape Town City, after enduring a challenging and stressful 2024/25 season, will now face a stern test against Orbit College and Casric Stars—two ambitious sides who finished second and third, respectively, in the Motsepe Foundation Championship. With the pressure mounting, the battle for PSL survival and promotion promises to be fierce.

Orbit College, notably the club where star winger Monnapule Saleng first made his mark before moving to the elite division, will launch their play-off campaign on Wednesday afternoon against Casric Stars at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium in KwaMhlanga. The match, set for 15:00, could set the tone for what is expected to be an unpredictable and thrilling series of games.

Amid the growing excitement, respected football coach and analyst Vladislav Heric has shared a bold opinion on the likely outcome of the play-offs. Having spent significant time in the South African football landscape, particularly in the second tier, Heric’s insights carry considerable weight.

“Amongst those three clubs, Orbit are the ones who are playing the best football. They play football, and my heart will always be with the people who know how to play football,” said Heric, highlighting Orbit’s attractive and effective style of play.

While acknowledging Cape Town City’s experience and offensive firepower, Heric was quick to point out the reasons for their precarious situation. “Cape Town City are more experienced and have more firepower to help them keep their PSL status, but that said, there is a reason they are down where they are right now,” he noted.

Heric also weighed in on Casric Stars’ chances, describing them as serious contenders but suggesting that external factors could influence their campaign. “Casric are serious contenders, but I believe Orbit plays better football than Casric. But in my mind and experience in South African football, Casric might be the one who is pushed in. They might be a favourite team for someone who wants them to succeed. The book is open, and the South African football movie is on.”

Returning to his prediction, Heric confidently backed Orbit College to emerge victorious from the play-offs. “My favourite remains Orbit because out of the three, they are the ones playing the best football. I like the way Orbit play.”

Heric believes that a strong start could be pivotal for Orbit. “I believe Orbit can win both their opening games, but even four points can put them in a very good position to go through,” he added.

As the countdown to kick-off continues, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see whether Orbit College can translate their promising form into results on the pitch—or whether Cape Town City and Casric Stars will have the final say in this high-stakes football drama.