DStv Diski Challenge Returns With Exciting Fixtures This Weekend
The DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) 2025/26 season is set to kick off this weekend, with all teams in action across different venues.
The PSL Reserve League, established in 2014 by MultiChoice to develop youth football in South Africa, will celebrate its 11th year.
Last season, Kaizer Chiefs made history by accumulating a record 70 points to secure their first DDC title since its inception.
Currently, only two teams, Golden Arrows and Stellenbosch, have won the title twice. Arrows won in the 2015/16 and 2017/18 seasons, while Stellies were champions in 2021/22 and 2023/24.
The first game of the season will feature big matches, including a KZN Derby between Golden Arrows and Richards Bay at Mpumalanga Stadium, followed by Orlando Pirates against Durban City at the same venue.
Other matches include a Limpopo Derby between Magesi and Sekhukhune United at Seshego Stadium, and TS Galaxy hosting Marumo Gallants at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium.
On Sunday, AmaZulu will face last season’s runners-up Stellenbosch at Mpumalanga Stadium, and defending champions Chiefs will take on Orbit College in the same venue.
Other matches include Polokwane City hosting Chippa United at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, and Mamelodi Sundowns against Siwelele at Tuks Stadium.
The DStv Diski Challenge has proven to be a breeding ground for talented players in South Africa, with many going on to play abroad.
Notable players include Keagan Dolly and Percy Tau, who played in Ligue 1 and the Premier League, and current players like Siyabonga Ngezana, Lyle Foster, and Mohau Nkota, who have secured deals in Romania, the Premier League, and the Saudi Pro League, respectively.
The league’s success was further highlighted last season when Amajita, the South African U20 national team, won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with many players from the DDC contributing to the team’s success.
Tylon Smith won the Player of the Tournament in AFCON and was signed by the English team Queens Park Rangers, playing in the EFL Championship.
Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who played for Orlando Pirates in the DDC last season as the league celebrated its 10-year milestone, has also earned a spot in Bafana Bafana and now captains Pirates in the absence of Nkosinathi Sibisi.
