The battle for early supremacy in the Motsepe Foundation Championship resumes this weekend after a two-week FIFA international break, with leaders Magesi FC facing renewed pressure from a chasing pack determined to close the gap.
After five rounds, only three points separate the top four, setting the stage for another intriguing round of fixtures in the second tier of South African football.
Magesi have made the strongest start to the campaign, collecting 13 points from five matches after winning four of their opening games. However, Dikwena tsa Meetse were stopped in their tracks in their last outing when they were held to a 1-1 draw by Hungry Lions at Seshego Stadium.
That dropped points has allowed the chasing pack to close in.
Real Native FC, formerly known as Casric Stars, are second on 12 points after also winning four of their five matches. The Mpumalanga outfit has undergone a name change for the 2026/27 campaign, with the club now officially competing as Real Native FC.
Leicesterford City and Highbury are level on 10 points, with Leicesterford occupying third place ahead of Highbury on goal difference.
Leicesterford will be looking to build on their impressive 1-0 victory over Midlands Wanderers in their previous match, while Highbury will be desperate to return to winning ways after being held to a goalless draw by Gomora United.
The weekend’s fixtures could therefore have a major impact on the early promotion race.
Magesi have home advantage when they welcome North West University to Seshego Stadium, while Real Native face a potentially tricky trip to Hungry Lions.
Leicesterford travel to Pretoria to face the University of Pretoria at Tuks Stadium, while Highbury are also away against Orbit College in Rustenburg.
The matches will continue on Sunday, October 11, with
Gomora United vs Upington City at the while Cape Town City vs The Bees — DHL Cape Town Stadium.
