Orbit College FC’s PSL Reality Check — 2025/26 Season
Pogiso Makhoye, Orbit College head coach
Orbit College FC’s debut season in the Betway Premiership has been a challenging learning curve rather than a fairy-tale rise.
Cup Exit — 3‑0 Loss to Golden Arrows
In the Nedbank Cup Round of 32 on 7 February 2026, newly promoted Orbit College were beaten 3‑0 by Lamontville Golden Arrows. Goals from Lungelo Nguse (24′), Sede Junior Dion (33′) and Ayabulela Maxwele (79′) sealed a comprehensive win for Arrows and ended Orbit’s cup run.
Coach Pogiso Makhoye said the loss, while disappointing, could allow the club to focus fully on league survival.
League Struggles — Relegation Battle
Orbit College reached the PSL by winning the 2024/25 National First Division promotion playoffs, marking the club’s first top-flight appearance.
As of 11 February 2026:
15th place in the 16-team league
14 points from 17 matches (4 wins, 2 draws, 11 losses)
Goal difference: ‑16
Goals scored: 14 | Goals conceded: 30
Recent league results highlight defensive struggles and inconsistent attack, reflecting a club still adjusting to the PSL.
Fan Commentary
Fans have been vocal on social media, with frustrations boiling over after the cup exit. One viral post on X by @Malatjie_ summarized the mood:
“Orbit College must just pack they stuff and head back to NFD. They are wasting everyone's time and resources.”
Replies from other fans echoed the sentiment:
“The PSL project is not working out for them, shame.”
“I saw their STATS, no offside, no shot at goal. They don’t belong in the PSL.”
“Bro, what football is that?”
“There is no coaching at Orbit College FC. This clown is forcing matters…”
While harsh, these comments capture the public perception and growing pressure on the newly promoted side.
Survival Focus Ahead
After the cup elimination, Makhoye emphasized league survival as the priority, preparing for a crucial away fixture against Sekhukhune United on 15 February.
Every upcoming match is a must-win for staying in the PSL, and the team must earn points quickly to avoid relegation.
Verdict
Orbit’s cup exit was disappointing, but the league paints a clearer picture: a newly promoted club struggling to adapt. With relegation looming, the coming weeks will define whether Orbit College can survive the PSL or face a quick return to the NFD. Fan commentary reflects frustration, but also underscores how high the stakes are for the debutants.
