Orlando Pirates’ Deano van Rooyen and Arthur Sales of Mamelodi Sundowns battle for possession during their Betway Premiership encounter at the FNB Stadium. While the Africa Cup of Nations gathers momentum with Africa’s finest going head-to-head for continental supremacy, the start of the new year has also brought the Betway Premiership tantalisingly close to resumption, especially with Bafana Bafana getting knocked out in the Last 16 on Sunday. Business has not been as usual this season.
This campaign carries a distinct energy, with a simmering battle emerging between the country’s two standout giants, Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates. The pair are set for more than a mere stare-down; they could once again clash head-on in a fight for the league title. Sundowns remain the undisputed champions, chasing a record-extending ninth consecutive league crown, while Pirates are determined to end a 13-year title drought, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this season’s heavyweight showdown.
The Betway Premiership will resume in a couple of weeks, and the headline fixture will be the high-stakes clash between the Buccaneers and the Brazilians at Orlando Stadium later this month. Fans will be hoping for more than the 1-1 draw that left them wanting more in their previous encounter. With log-leading Pirates holding a two-point advantage over second-placed Sundowns, and with the Buccaneers also having a game in hand, both sides face crucial matches before their showdown.
Read Full Article on The Mercury
[paywall]
Here, we break down their next few fixtures and how they could shape the title race. For years, Sundowns have often been the hunted. Now, with the tables turned, they must show mental resilience while chasing a Pirates side that has been impressively consistent this season.
The international break could either disrupt the Buccaneers’ rhythm or work in Sundowns’ favour, giving them the chance to capitalise on any slip-ups. The opening clash against Orbit College at Loftus Versfeld Stadium will be pivotal. In their backyard, Sundowns will have little choice but to secure a victory, using the match as a springboard for a strong start to the second half of the season.
[/paywall]
