By The Numbers: PSL Tuesday matches

Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates were the two big names in action on Tuesday evening as the Premiership started its second round of fixtures for the 2025/26 season.

The opening weekend saw some surprise results as Pirates lost 1-0 to Sekhukhune United and Sundowns were held to a 1-1 draw against Chippa United. Six of the 16 teams were in action on Tuesday with Sundowns against AmaZulu FC, Marumo Gallants facing Orlando Pirates and Orbit College hostinh Siwelele FC.

Sundowns vs AmaZulu FC

Sundowns returned to winning ways at home with a dominant display against AmaZulu FC. The Tshwane giants once again played their trademark possession-based game. AmaZulu held firm in the first half, keeping the scoreline level, but Iqraam Rayners broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute to open his league account for the season. Some of the main numbers highlight Sundowns’ dominance

80% – ball possession for Sundowns (20% for AmaZulu)

740 – passes completed by Sundowns (only 175 for AmaZulu)

38 – touches in the opposition box (5 for AmaZulu)

19 – shots for Sundowns (6 for AmaZulu)

0 – shots on target faced by Sundowns’ Ronwen Williams

19-year old Kutlwano Letlhaku, led all players in first-half shots (3) before being replaced at the break by Tashreeq Matthews. Matthews made his mark on the game providing an assist, and sealing the victory with a second goal deep into stoppage time. The xG timeline below shows the dominance in terms of chances, showing just how much more Sundowns created between the two teams.

Marumo Gallants v Orlando Pirates

Pirates’ difficult start to the 2025/26 season continued on Tuesday evening as they conceded a late goal to lose 2-1 away to current log leaders Marumo Gallants. The hosts pulled off a clinical come-from-behind 2-1 win despite being second-best on almost every statistical measure.

60% – possession for Pirates (40 for Marumo)

18 – shots for Pirates

29 touches inside the Gallants’ box (13 for Marumo)

The xG timeline below shows Pirates creating chances steadily throughout the match, with Gallants’ goals coming from fewer but more decisive moments. Simulated outcome probabilities heavily favoured a Pirates win (62.3%), yet Gallants defied the odds to claim all three points. This was a textbook example of efficiency in front of goal triumphing over sustained pressure.

Orbit College vs Siwelele FC

Siwelele kicked off their top-flight campaign in style on Sunday, claiming a 3-1 win over Golden Arrows to go top of the table after the opening round. However, their momentum was halted on Tuesday evening as they lost away to newcomers Orbit College.

Looking ahead to Wednesday’s fixtures, Kaizer Chiefs will aim to maintain their winning start when they host Polokwane City, while Sekhukhune United will be targeting the same outcome against TS Galaxy. Lamontville Golden Arrows face local rivals Richards Bay, Magesi FC meet Stellenbosch FC, and Durban City take on Chippa United.

As the second round continues, seven of the 10 clubs in action this evening will be looking for their first win of the campaign and look to consolidate their spots in the early-season top eight.