Thrilling Start to the 2025/26 Motsepe Foundation Championship

The 2025/26 Motsepe Foundation Championship kicked off this past weekend with high energy, goals, and surprise results. Upington City and Casric Stars set the tone with emphatic wins, while newcomers The Bees FC impressed on debut.

Upington City delivered one of the most entertaining matches of the opening round at the Mxolisi Dicky Jacobs Stadium. They defeated Kruger United 4-2 in front of their home fans. The first half was filled with attacking football, ending 3-2 in favour of the hosts. Lesedi Motha added a fourth goal in the 53rd minute to confirm a strong start for the club.

Casric Stars, who were among the title challengers last season, showed their strength again. They secured a 3-0 win over Black Leopards at Thohoyandou Stadium. Decide Chauke, Simon Moukete, and Tshepo Mohlala all got on the scoresheet, making a statement that they intend to push for promotion once more.

Former Premiership side Cape Town City found life in the Championship tough on opening day. They were held to a 0-0 draw by Venda Football Club at Athlone Stadium, a result that highlighted the competitiveness of the league.

The Bees FC marked their debut with a comeback victory over Baroka FC at Kanyamazane Stadium. Baroka went ahead through Bonginkosi Makume, but goals from Khayelihle Xaba and Sicelo Masilela turned the match around. The result gave the newcomers a perfect start in their first season.

Other matches also produced tight contests. Gomora United edged Leicesterford City 1-0, while Highbury and University of Pretoria shared a 1-1 draw. Milford FC opened their season with a 1-0 win over Lerumo Lions. Midlands Wanderers wrapped up the weekend with a narrow 1-0 victory against Hungry Lions.

Matchday One Results

Friday, 22 August
Gomora United 1–0 Leicesterford City
Highbury 1–1 University of Pretoria

Saturday, 23 August
Black Leopards 0–3 Casric Stars
Cape Town City 0–0 Venda Football Club
Milford FC 1–0 Lerumo Lions
Upington City 4–2 Kruger United

Sunday, 24 August
Midlands Wanderers 1–0 Hungry Lions
The Bees FC 2–1 Baroka FC

The opening weekend confirmed why the Motsepe Foundation Championship remains unpredictable and exciting. Established clubs had to work hard, while newcomers proved they belong. Fans can expect more drama, goals, and surprises as the season unfolds.