Exciting Fixtures Await as DStv Diski Challenge Returns This Weekend
The DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) 2025/26 season is about to commence this weekend, with all teams competing at various venues.
The PSL Reserve League, launched in 2014 by MultiChoice to nurture youth football in South Africa, is entering its 11th year of operation.
In the previous season, Kaizer Chiefs achieved a remarkable milestone by amassing 70 points to clinch their inaugural DDC title since its establishment.
Currently, only two teams, Golden Arrows and Stellenbosch, have secured the title on two occasions. Arrows triumphed in the 2015/16 and 2017/18 seasons, while Stellies were victorious in 2021/22 and 2023/24.
The opening game of the season promises exciting matches, including a KZN Derby featuring Golden Arrows against Richards Bay at Mpumalanga Stadium, followed by a clash between Orlando Pirates and Durban City at the same venue.
Additional matches include a Limpopo Derby as Magesi faces Sekhukhune United at Seshego Stadium, and TS Galaxy hosting Marumo Gallants at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium.
On Sunday, AmaZulu will clash with last season’s runners-up Stellenbosch at Mpumalanga Stadium, while defending champions Chiefs will meet Orbit College at the same venue.
Further fixtures entail Polokwane City hosting Chippa United at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, and Mamelodi Sundowns squaring off against Siwelele at Tuks Stadium.
The DStv Diski Challenge has established itself as a vital platform for emerging talent in South Africa, with numerous players advancing to careers abroad.
Notable alumni include Keagan Dolly and Percy Tau, who have competed in Ligue 1 and the Premier League, alongside current talents like Siyabonga Ngezana, Lyle Foster, and Mohau Nkota, who have landed contracts in Romania, the Premier League, and the Saudi Pro League, respectively.
The league’s prowess was further showcased last season when Amajita, the South African U20 national team, clinched the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), significantly due to contributions from DDC players.
Tylon Smith was honored with the Player of the Tournament award in AFCON and subsequently signed by the English club Queens Park Rangers, competing in the EFL Championship.
Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who played for Orlando Pirates in the DDC during the league’s 10-year celebration, has also secured a position in Bafana Bafana and currently captains Pirates in the absence of Nkosinathi Sibisi.
