Orlando Pirates appear to be the favourites to win the Betway Premiership ahead of rivals Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs.
Despite losing their opening two league matches, the Buccaneers have fought back to climb to second on the log and are just three points behind Masandawana with two games in hand.
Having reached two finals this season already, Abselam Ouaddou’s charges mean business and are the most confident team in the league currently, with 15 wins across all competitions.
Why Pirates will upstage Sundowns and Chiefs
Amakhosi have improved this season and are in the running for the league. Chiefs are level on points with Pirates, although they have played an extra game.
Their league ambitions however, might be disturbed by their participation in the CAF Confederation Cup. Playing in two big competitions might halt their momentum and also force a few injuries to key players, thus causing them to lose ground.
Sundowns, on the hand have been inconsistent this campaign. Although they have won the Betway Premiership for eight consecutive seasons, they seem slightly off this season, which could play in Pirates‘ hands.
Unlike Chiefs, Sundowns can compete in Africa and also fight Pirates for the league. Their biggest challenge will be to play catch-up and hope the Buccaneers lose points.
The Sea Robbers were knocked out in the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League, which gives them time to rest and focus only on the league.
Pirates now have a chance to build a lead on Sundowns and Chiefs as the two teams fight it out in Africa.