What does Diski Challenge standings tell us ahead of Soweto derby?

With 10 game weeks in the bag, the DStv Diski Challenge has already covered more than a third of its season and the picture at the top is starting to take shape.

Do Early Positions Really Matter?

History suggests that big swings in the standings are rare. Last season, only two teams finished more than three places away from where they were after 10 games. For example, Marumo Gallants climbed from 15th to 12th, while Golden Arrows jumped from 14th to 11th.

At the sharp end, Kaizer Chiefs moved from second to first to claim the title, while Stellenbosch, who led after 10 games, slipped to second. Mamelodi Sundowns stayed steady in third, while Orlando Pirates improved from seventh to fifth.

Current Standings: Pirates Set the Pace

Fast forward to this season, and Orlando Pirates Reserves are flying high at the top with 25 points from 10 matches. They’re five points clear of Mamelodi Sundowns, who sit second on 20 points.

Pirates coach Roscoe Krieling insists he’s not fixated on the table yet, focusing instead on consistency until the final whistle in May. But with the Soweto giants leading the pack, fans are already asking: Could this be their year?

A Tight Race Behind the Leaders

The top half is congested, just seven points separate AmaZulu in ninth from Sundowns in second. This speaks to the fierce competitiveness of the early stages.

Richards Bay have been the surprise package, sitting fourth with 18 points, while Siwelele FC are fifth and boast the joint-best defensive record (7 goals conceded), matching Pirates.

Defending champions Kaizer Chiefs have endured a slow start and are sixth with 14 points making the upcoming Soweto Derby even more significant.