PSL: Pirates Kick Off Title Defence, Chiefs Seek Strong Comeback
by Devesh Jaganath | by Devesh Jaganath
Bucs Eye Strong Start to 2026-27 Season Against New Boys Milford
After bringing an end to their 14-year wait to win the South African Premiership title last season, Orlando Pirates will be looking to make a strong start to the 2026-27 campaign this afternoon when they take on newcomers Milford at Orlando Stadium.
As discussed in our PSL predictions, the Buccaneers enter the match as overwhelming favourites after returning from their pre-season tour of Spain, where they recorded two wins, one draw and two defeats earlier this month.
Standing in their way is a Milford team looking to make a statement in the top flight!
Milford navigated the promotion playoffs impeccably and arrive in Soweto after an encouraging showing at the KZN Premier’s Cup, where they defeated Richards Bay 2-1 on July 26 to reach the final before suffering a 2-0 defeat to AmaZulu in the decider.
While the Stallions have a massive task at hand, they have something of a reputation as giant-killers, having stunned both Kaizer Chiefs and Sekhukhune United in previous Nedbank Cup campaigns, while also overcoming Cape Town City and Casric Stars during their promotion push.
This afternoon’s clash is the first-ever meeting between Pirates and Milford. It will also give us a first look at how the Bucs will line up without last season’s Player of the Year, Relebohile Mofokeng, and the integration of Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen.
Can Kaizer Chiefs Make 2026-27 Season a Three-Horse Race?
While Pirates finally broke Mamelodi Sundowns’ chokehold on the South African Premiership last season and are expected to be Masandawana’s biggest threat this term, Kaizer Chiefs are widely considered to be better placed to challenge this year than they have been in the past decade.
AmaKhosi last mounted a genuine Premiership title challenge in 2019-20!
With the uncertainty surrounding the head coach position now resolved following Fernando da Cruz’s appointment, Chiefs finally have the stability needed to build on the foundations already laid and continue the club’s long-term rebuilding process.
The Glamour Boys have done some good recruitment recently too, with winger Asanele Velebayi set to enjoy a more prominent role this season after joining from Cape Town Spurs, while academy graduate Mfundo Vilakazi is expected to have a breakthrough campaign.
Chiefs kick off their 2026-27 top-flight campaign at Mbombela Stadium against newcomers Kruger United. The Soweto giants scored only 33 goals last season but had the second-best defensive record with just 19 goals conceded.
