Survival of the Fittest: Betway Premiership Teams Scramble to Avoid Relegation

Rethabile Nyelele2 April , 2025

As the 2024/2025 Betway Premiership season heads into its final stretch, the international break provides a crucial moment for clubs to assess their positions. With the season nearing its conclusion, the battle for survival is intensifying. Several teams in the lower half of the table are fighting to stay in the league, while others are eyeing a top-eight finish and qualification for next season’s MTN8.

In this critical phase, four clubs are finding themselves in the midst of a tense fight to avoid relegation, while also aiming to secure a place in the prestigious MTN8 competition.

Magesi FC (12th Position)

Magesi FC, in their debut Premiership season, have shown signs of life as they climb out of the relegation zone. After struggling for much of the season, they’ve won three of their last four matches and now sit two points clear of the danger zone. Under the guidance of experienced coach Owen Da Gama, Magesi have been particularly strong at home, which they will look to continue to protect. Their remaining fixtures include tough challenges against Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, but they’ll need to stay focused to avoid slipping back into the relegation playoffs.

Also read: Magesi vs Sundowns – Magesi Stun Sundowns with a Historic Carling Knockout Cup Victory

Richards Bay FC (11th Position)

Richards Bay have gained consistency under coach Papi Zothwane, moving to 11th in the table following a significant win over Kaizer Chiefs. They are now three points clear of the relegation zone and are looking to build on their recent form to push for a top-eight finish. After surviving relegation through the playoffs last season, Richards Bay are determined to secure safety and avoid another nervy conclusion to the campaign. With eight matches remaining, the club’s fate is still in their hands, and they are keen to ensure survival with their upcoming fixtures against clubs like Polokwane City and Golden Arrows.

Golden Arrows (10th Position)

Golden Arrows have played fewer matches than most clubs in their vicinity, giving them a unique opportunity to move up the table. Currently sitting three points above the relegation zone, they are under the management of Manqoba Mngqithi, who has brought fresh energy to the squad. Arrows will need to convert their games in hand into points to secure a top-eight spot, with crucial upcoming fixtures against Kaizer Chiefs and Chippa United. A strong finish to the season could see them comfortably avoid relegation.

Chippa United (9th Position)

Chippa United have quietly established themselves in mid-table this season, away from the relegation threat. Having narrowly survived the drop last season, they are now in a good position to avoid any relegation worries and aim for a top-eight finish, a feat they’ve only managed once before in their Premiership history. With ten games left, the Chilli Boys are determined to improve on their previous performances and ensure a higher finish this time around. Their remaining fixtures, including matches against Golden Arrows and Kaizer Chiefs, will be crucial in securing safety and making a push for the top eight.

Final Stages of the Season

As the season nears its end, the fight to stay in the top flight is fiercer than ever. The clubs in the lower half of the table will need to maintain their focus and gather as many points as possible in the remaining weeks. Whether they are battling to avoid relegation or aiming for a spot in the MTN8, these teams are in for a nerve-wracking conclusion to the campaign.