The new DStv Premiership season kicks off with a David-vs-Goliath clash as Chippa United host defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium this Saturday.
For punters, this fixture has been a banker for years. Sundowns have dominated the head-to-head, 20 wins from 30 meetings, with Chippa claiming just two victories and the remaining eight ending in draws. Even more telling? The Brazilians have beaten Chippa seven times in a row, including back-to-back 3-0 scorelines last season.
Match Details
- Kick-off: Saturday, 9 August 2025 – 15:00
- Venue: Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium
- Watch: SuperSport TV, DStv Stream, Showmax | Live radio on SABC
- Tickets: Available at Computicket outlets
Current Form & Betting Narrative
Sundowns arrive in the Eastern Cape in ruthless form. Fresh from a 4-0 MTN8 quarter-final thrashing of Richards Bay, Miguel Cardoso’s men are chasing an unprecedented ninth straight league title. With their depth and quality, they’re the pre-season favourites not just for this game, but for the entire campaign.
Chippa, under new boss Sinethemba Badela, are in rebuild mode. Eight new signings in a single week means there’s plenty of fresh talent, but also question marks over cohesion. Opening your season against the country’s most dominant side is the definition of a baptism of fire.
Players to Watch – Betting Perspective
Chippa United
- Sammy Seabi & Goodman Mosele – Defensive midfielders who’ll be crucial in protecting a backline likely to face waves of attacks.
- Khaya Mfecane & Azola Tshobeni – Their pace could be Chippa’s only real weapon on the counter.
Mamelodi Sundowns
- Themba Zwane – The heartbeat of Sundowns’ attack, capable of both scoring and assisting.
- Iqraam Rayners & Arthur Sales – With uncertainty around Lucas Ribeiro, Peter Shalulile, and Khuliso Mudau, these two could spearhead the attack.
- Fawaaz Basadien – Could make his first start, adding width and delivery from the flanks.
Head-to-Head – Last 5 Meetings
- 13 Aug 2023 – Sundowns 3-0 Chippa
- 20 Dec 2023 – Chippa 0-3 Sundowns
- 06 Apr 2024 – Sundowns 1-0 Chippa
- 15 Sep 2024 – Chippa 1-2 Sundowns
- 02 May 2024 – Sundowns 2-1 Chippa
Betting Odds (Hollywoodbets)
- Mamelodi Sundowns – 4/10
- Draw – 3/1
- Chippa United – 15/2
Betting Tips
- Best Bet: Mamelodi Sundowns to win – history, form, and squad quality make this almost unavoidable.
- Value Bet: Sundowns to win by 2+ goals – they’ve done it in 5 of their last 6 meetings with Chippa.
- Anytime Goalscorer: Themba Zwane – in fine form and loves pulling the strings in games like this.
Verdict: Expect Sundowns to dominate possession, set the tempo, and create early chances. Chippa’s best hope lies in frustrating the champions and hitting on the break, but the gulf in class is huge. The smart money? Sundowns to win comfortably.