The tide of the Betway Premiership title race appears to have shifted dramatically this week, leaving Orlando Pirates in a precarious position. After a frustrating 1-1 draw against Siwelele, the Buccaneers have handed the psychological and mathematical advantage to their arch-rivals, Mamelodi Sundowns.
With only nine matches remaining in the season, the “Sea Robbers” are finding themselves under immense pressure as the Brazilians look poised to run away with the league.
The Sundowns “Triple Threat” Factor
Orlando Pirates’ hopes for a Sundowns slip-up were dampened by Masandawana’s clinical performance in the CAF Champions League.
- Continental Dominance: Sundowns’ 3-0 demolition of Stade Malien in the quarter-final first leg means they can effectively “coast” through the second leg.
- Squad Rotation: Because the tie is virtually decided, coach Manqoba Mngqithi can afford to rest superstars like Peter Shalulile and Marcel Allende during the midweek league clash against Marumo Gallants.
- The Points Gap: A victory for Sundowns on Tuesday will see them leapfrog Pirates to open a two-point lead—crucially, with a game still in hand.
The Mohau Nkota Blow
Adding to the “bad news” for the Ghost is the definitive update on former star Mohau Nkota. Rumors of a sensational return to Mayfair (even on loan) have been officially quelled.
Al-Ettifaq has reportedly placed a €3 million (approx. R60 million) price tag on the winger and is prioritizing a development loan to Portuguese giants Benfica. This leaves Pirates without the January reinforcement many fans were hoping would spark their attack for the final stretch.
