Orlando Pirates appear to have cracked first in their title race against Mamelodi Sundowns.
With nine matches remaining, the Buccaneers are just one point ahead of the Brazilians. However, Masandawana still have a game in hand, which could prove decisive in the race for the Betway Premiership title.
A victory for Sundowns against Marumo Gallants in their midweek fixture would see them move two points clear at the top of the table, a shift that could hand them the momentum as they chase a remarkable ninth consecutive league crown.
Why Pirates may succumb to Sundowns
Pirates once held a six-point lead over Sundowns before the two sides met in February. However, defeat at FNB Stadium allowed the Brazilians to close the gap, and they later won their game in hand to draw level on points.
Following that meeting, the title race looked set to go down to the wire, with both teams appearing capable of winning all their remaining league matches.
But Pirates’ momentum stalled this weekend when they were held to a draw by Bloemfontein Celtic, also known as Siwelele.
Why Pirates look tense while Sundowns remain calm
In their last three matches, the Buccaneers have struggled to convince and have looked unsettled defensively.
Their biggest problem, however, has been converting chances. Strikers Evidence Makgopa and Yanela Mbuthuma have both missed clear opportunities that could have put Pirates at least three points clear at the top.
Their failure to finish off matches could come back to haunt them in the final stretch of the season. Too often, Pirates create chances but allow opponents back into games because they cannot capitalise when on top.
By contrast, Sundowns may create fewer chances, but they are far more clinical in front of goal and rarely allow teams back into contests.
Pirates, meanwhile, appear to lose composure when they fail to score early or when they are forced to defend a narrow lead, a vulnerability that could ultimately tilt the title race in Sundowns’ favour.
