Milford FC secure promotion to Betway Premiership
Milford FC earned a place in South Africa’s top‑flight football league after a hard‑fought 1‑1 draw with Magesi FC at Seshego Stadium in Limpopo on Saturday, 15 March 2025. The result confirmed Milford’s promotion from the National First Division and means that KwaZulu‑Natal will now be represented by five clubs in the Betway Premiership for the 2026‑2027 season.
How the match unfolded
Milford entered the decisive playoff fixture with six points from their previous three games, including a 1‑0 victory over Magesi at Richards Bay’s home ground the week before. Magesi, sitting on four points, needed a win to avoid relegation.
The visitors struck first in the 14th minute when Reegan van de Ross swung in a cross that found Zimbabwean striker Edmore Chirambadare unmarked at the far post. Chirambadare headed the ball past Elvis Chipezeze to give Magesi a 1‑0 lead.
Milford responded quickly. In the 38th minute a shot by midfielder Menzi Chili was blocked by Magesi defender Lehlogonolo Mtshali inside the penalty area, prompting the referee to award a penalty. Cheswyn Philander stepped up but his effort struck the crossbar, leaving the score unchanged.
The second half saw Milford increase the pressure. Their persistence paid off in the 58th minute when Chili collected the ball just outside the box, drove a low, powerful shot past Chipezeze, and levelled the match at 1‑1. Neither side managed to find a winner, and the draw held until the final whistle.
Implications for KwaZulu‑Natal football
With the promotion secured, Milford FC will join Richards Bay FC in using the uMhlathuze Sports Complex in Richards Bay as their home venue for the upcoming season. The other three KZN clubs already entrenched in the Premiership—AmaZulu FC, Lamontville Golden Arrows and Durban City—will continue to play their home matches at various stadiums across Durban.
Consequently, the top flight will feature the following KwaZulu‑Natal representatives for 2026‑2027:
- Milford FC (promoted)
- Richards Bay FC
- AmaZulu FC
- Lamontville Golden Arrows
- Durban City FC
Magesi FC, unable to overturn the deficit, will drop to the National First Division alongside Orbit College, who also failed to avoid relegation after the 2025‑2026 campaign.
Looking ahead
Analysts note that the influx of KZN clubs could intensify regional rivalries and boost attendance at matches held in the province’s coastal cities. Milford FC’s coaching staff has indicated that the squad will retain its core while targeting a few experienced additions to compete against established Premiership sides.
For supporters, the promotion represents a milestone after several seasons of near‑misses in the playoff races. Official statements from the Premier Soccer League confirm that Milford FC met all licensing requirements for top‑flight participation, clearing the final administrative hurdle before the season kicks off in August 2026.
