SEDIBENG.- Jomo Cosmos started their ABC Motsepe League campaign with an impressive 1-0 victory over Young Pirates FC at Duduza Stadium in Ekurhuleni on Sunday.

This encounter was initially scheduled to take place at Isak Steyl Stadium in Vanderbijlpark on Saturday but had to be moved due to an event that took place at the venue (Isak Steyl Stadium) on the same day.

Local supporters had eagerly anticipated the fixture, which ultimately unfolded in Ekurhuleni.

Cosmos found the surroundings familiar, having played matches there previously, and secured their first three points at the familiar ground. This victory places Ezenkosi second in the Stream B standings, just behind newly promoted Spartans FC, who started their campaign with a two-one win against Dube Continental FC.

The successful start highlights Jomo Sono’s clear intention to challenge for the league title this season.
Cosmos and Spartans FC are the only two teams in the stream to claim victories over the weekend.
Following a disappointing 2025/2026 season that saw the club briefly threatened by relegation before escaping the danger zone, Cosmos retained nearly 88% of their squad to signal serious promotion ambitions to the Motsepe Foundation Championships.

Having previously dropped out of top-flight football, the club has faced challenges maintaining status, yet Sono appears to have a renewed plan after rebuilding the side with promising youngsters. His patience has paid off as these players now prove reliable for a championship campaign.

Following the match, Young Pirates coach Isaac Mphasane told Sedibeng Ster Sport that his team was unlucky to lose.

“I was very impressed with how we played. It was a great game of football with both teams playing attacking football. Those soccer fans went home entertained on the day,” said Mphasane.

Mphasane said that the defeat is now water under the bridge as they prepare for their next fixture.
Ezenkosi will now travel away to face TUT for their second match of the season on October 9.