The 2025/26 Motsepe Foundation Championship got off to a thrilling start this weekend, with Upington City and Casric Stars emerging as standout performers on matchday one.

Upington City lit up the Mxolisi Dicky Jacobs Stadium with a 4-2 triumph over Kruger United. The first half was a goal fest, ending 3-2 in favour of the hosts. Lesedi Motha sealed the win with a fourth goal in the 53rd minute, ensuring a strong start on home turf.

Meanwhile, Casric Stars cruised to a 3-0 victory against Black Leopards at Thohoyandou Stadium. Last season’s title contenders showed their intent early, with Decide Chauke, Simon Moukete, and Tshepo Mohlala all finding the net.

Elsewhere, Cape Town City - recently relegated from the Betway Premiership - were held to a goalless draw by Venda Football Club at Athlone Stadium.

Newcomers The Bees FC made an impressive debut, overturning a deficit to beat Baroka FC 2-1 at Kanyamazane Stadium. Bonginkosi Makume opened the scoring for Baroka, but Khayelihle Xaba and Sicelo Masilela responded to secure the win.

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