Polokwane crowned NFD champions on goal difference, promoted to PSL in dramatic end to title race

At Athlone Stadium, Cape Town

In an exhilarating culmination of the 2022/23 National First Division (NFD) season, Polokwane City emerged as champions on goal difference against Pretoria Callies, securing a resounding 4-0 victory on Sunday at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium.

This commanding triumph propelled Polokwane City to the top, earning automatic promotion back to Premier Soccer League - DStv Premiership - after outshining Cape Town Spurs and Casric Stars on the final day of the campaign.

As the final round of fixtures approached of the NFD, known as the Motsepe Foundation Championship, the stakes were exceptionally high, with three teams still mathematically in contention for the title.

Polokwane were on 54 points before kick-off and commenced the day in the seemingly less advantageous position of third place.

Spurs led the charge in the fiercely contested three-way battle for the title, perched at the top of the standings with a commendable 56 points.

Stars were in hot pursuit, occupying a tightly squeezed second position with just one point behind, accumulating a respectable total of 55 points.

While City hosted Pretoria Callies north in Polokwane, Spurs eagerly greeted the University of Pretoria at Athlone Stadium.

Casric Stars FC embarked on a journey to Brakpan for a fierce encounter with All Stars.

It was a moment of heightened anticipation as all these crucial matches kicked off simultaneously, adding an extra layer of excitement to the climactic final day of the season.

Cape Town Spurs 1-1 University of Pretoria

All Stars 2-2 Casric Stars

Polokwane City 4-0 Pretoria Callies

TTM 0-1 Baroka 

Venda 0-1 Black Leopards

JDR Stars 5-0 Platinum City Rovers

Hungry Lions 2-1 Magesi

Uthongathi 4-4 MM Platinum 

At half-time, Spurs