Three things Orlando Pirates need to do to win the Betway Premiership title

Orlando Pirates are well-positioned to mount a serious challenge for the 2025/26 Betway Premiership title – their best chance in 14 seasons in fact.

However, with several high-pressure fixtures remaining and defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns close behind, consistency will be decisive in the final stretch of the season.

THREE THINGS ORLANDO PIRATES MUST DO TO WIN THE LEAGUE

The 2025/26 Betway Premiership is set to go down to the wire with just nine matches remaining for the Buccaneers and 10 for Masandawana.

Let’s take a look at what Orlando Pirates need to do to increase their chances of winning this year’s title.

1. KEEP WINNING

Orlando Pirates currently sit at the top of the Betway Premiership table with 48 points from 21 matches.

Mamelodi Sundowns, meanwhile, have played one game fewer and lie one point adrift.

This narrow margin leaves little room for error.

In recent PSL seasons, title winners have typically averaged over two points per game, meaning even a single draw can significantly impact the standings in a tightly contested race.

Orlando Pirates must therefore sustain a high win rate to remain ahead.

2. SCORE, SCORE, SCORE!

Orlando Pirates hold a goal difference of +25, marginally ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns on +24.

Goal difference is the determining factor in league outcomes when teams end level on points.

Improving attacking efficiency will be crucial, particularly in games against lower-ranked opponents where opportunities to increase their goal differential are higher.

3. KEEP AS MANY CLEAN SHEETS AS POSSIBLE

While attacking output remains important, defensive consistency is equally critical in title-winning campaigns.

Teams that concede fewer goals reduce the pressure on their attack and are more likely to convert narrow leads into victories.

Clean sheets not only improve goal difference, but also increase the probability of securing maximum points.

A balanced approach between attack and defence will be essential in the closing stages of the season.

BEST CHANCE FOR ORLANDO PIRATES IN 14 SEASONS

Orlando Pirates are aiming to secure their first league title since the 2011/12 season.

If Orlando Pirates maintain consistency, manage their goal difference effectively, and remain defensively disciplined, they will place sustained pressure on Mamelodi Sundowns.

In a race where margins are minimal, even a single slip could prove decisive.