The 14-year drought is reaching its breaking point. Following Mamelodi Sundowns’ dramatic 3-2 collapse against TS Galaxy on Wednesday, the path to the 2025/26 Betway Premiership title has been cleared for the “Ghost.”
Mamelodi Sundowns have officially concluded their campaign with 68 points. Orlando Pirates currently sit on 65 points, but with two games still to play, the destiny of the trophy is firmly in their hands.
The Permutations: How Pirates Clinch the Crown
The Buccaneers are in a dominant position to reclaim their status as the kings of South African football. Here is what they need:
- Four Points for Absolute Certainty: If Pirates collect four points from their final two matches, they hit 69 points, mathematically ending the race regardless of other factors.
- Three Points (The Goal Difference Factor): A single win from their remaining two games would put them level with Sundowns on 68 points. However, Pirates boast a massive +44 goal difference, while Sundowns finished at +36.
- The Bottom Line: To lose the title on equal points, Pirates would have to lose one of their matches by more than seven goals—a nearly impossible scenario for a team whose only three losses this season were by a single-goal margin.
Mofokeng: The League’s Imminent MVP?
As the team nears glory, individual accolades are also on the horizon. Relebohile Mofokeng has been the architect of this title charge. At just 21 years old, the playmaker has recorded a staggering 10 goals and 8 assists in 25 appearances.
With the 2026 World Cup in the Americas approaching, Mofokeng is expected to be the centerpiece of the Bafana Bafana attack. His skyrocketing form has raised a multi-million-euro question for the Pirates management: Is it time to cash in? While European suitors are circling, his value to the club’s upcoming CAF Champions League campaign might be even higher than any transfer fee.
The Final Hurdle
- Next Match: Orlando Pirates vs. Durban City
- Venue: Orlando Stadium
- Kickoff: Saturday, May 16, at 15:00
