It’s been entertaining. Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns have carried their Betway Premiership title battle into the January transfer window.
Just as the Sea Robbers were flying high, the season went into the AFCON break in early December. Orlando Pirates sat at the summit, while Sundowns lurked close behind in second spot with two points short.
Meanwhile, both clubs have flexed their muscles with three signings each since the January transfer window opened.
ORLANDO PIRATES AND MAMELODI SUNDOWNS SIGNINGS
The Soweto giants opened the window by securing the signature of Stellenbosch FC’s Andre De Jong. Sundowns responded with the extraordinary announcement of Monnapule Saleng from Orlando Pirates.
Kabo Yellow were not done. The Colombian striker Brayan Leon and TS Galaxy’s exciting left-sided central defender Khulumani Ndamane became Sundowns players.
Not to be outdone, Orlando Pirates made a double signing. Marumo Gallants’ Zimbabwean winger Daniel Msendami became a Buccaneer, as well as his teammate Mpho Chabatsane, stepping in to replace Mbekezeli Mbokazi on the left side of central defence.
With six signings between them so far, January is proving almost as crucial as matchdays in the Betway Premiership. Meanwhile, the window will remain ajar until the 31st.
THE BUCCANEERS IN THE DRIVING SEAT
After 12 matches, Orlando Pirates top the table with 28 points after nine wins, one draw, and just two defeats.
Coach Ouaddou has built a side that is solid at both ends, scoring 18 goals while conceding only five, giving them a +13 goal difference.
Beyond the league, Orlando Pirates have already tasted success, lifting both the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout Cup.
Sundowns are placed in second position behind Orlando Pirates. Cardoso’s team has seven wins, five draws and just one defeat. Standout performances included a 3–0 win over Magesi FC and a 4–1 victory over a solid Richards Bay FC side.
Cardoso’s cup record has done nothing to help his cause. Sundowns have faced early elimination in several cup competitions.
The MTN8 ended in a semi-final penalty shootout loss to Orlando Pirates, and they were knocked out of the Carling Knockout Cup in the Round of 16, also via a penalty shootout, by Marumo Gallants.