Big Game Preview: Orlando Pirates vs Mamelodi Sundowns

The stage is set for a massive league match as Orlando Pirates host defending champions Sundowns this Wednesday evening. This encounter is more than just a match between the top two teams in the division, it’s a statement of intent for the 2025/26 title race. Overall, it will be the fourth time that the sides meet in 2025/26, with the other three games all ending as 1-1 draws (Pirates advancing after extra-time in the MTN 8 semi-final). We preview the big game.

Orlando Pirates: Current Form

Orlando Pirates enter this fixture in red-hot form. Their recent 3-0 demolition of Marumo Gallants at the weekend showed a clinical edge that has often been missing in previous seasons. Despite the performance, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou was quick to instill discipline in his troops ahead of the big showdown and insisted they still have a mountain to climb to clinch their first league title since 2011/12. Pirates are currently on 38 points, four points ahead of the average champions’ path at 16 league games, and five ahead of their expected points.

The Buccaneers have been nearly flawless at home, turning the newly named Amstel Arena into a fortress. They have lost only once at home in the league and conceded only one goal in eight league matches. The Soweto side has currently played a game more than their title rivals and sit six points clear at the top of the table with 38 points from 16 matches.

11 – Pirates have won 11 home games in a row across competitions, setting a new PSL record.

Sundowns: Current Form

Sundowns trail their rivals by a few points yet remain the ever-present threat in the pursuit of another league title. The Brazilians have had a more congested schedule due to their CAF Champions League commitments, but they haven’t let their domestic standards slip significantly. Their recent 2-0 home victory against MC Alger to progress at the continental level shows their ability to perform under high pressure. However, they have shown a slight vulnerability away from home this season, recording only three wins out of eight league games. To close the gap, they must find a way to break through the league’s tightest defense. Their rate of points accumulation may not be as fast as previous seasons, but they are still within the championship path. The Expected Points (dotted) line is more reflective of a team not in top gear.

Key Player: Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates)

After a sluggish start to teh season, the 21-year-old forward has been a sensation since the league restarted in mid-January. He has three goals in three consecutive league matches and has evolved from an academy prospect to the heartbeat of the Pirates’ attack. His ability to operate in tight spaces and his vision for the final pass have made him a nightmare for defences. If Pirates are to unlock the Sundowns’ defence, it will likely be through a moment of individual brilliance from him.

Key Player: Brayan Leon (Mamelodi Sundowns)

For the visitors, Brayan Leon has proven another strong signing for the Pretoria-based outfit. Since his high-profile move in January, Leon has scored in his two league appearances as well as ensured that Sundowns progressed last weekend in the CAF Champions League with a brace. His presence in the front-line and link play between the attack will be crucial in breaking down Pirates strict defence.

Match Prediction

The game will be controlled in midfield and also where the tempo will be set. History suggests a tight affair, with tactical discipline at the heart of the encounter. Pirates have shown to be attackingly acute and defensively drilled, yet Sundowns have shown they can play with their backs against the wall this season. We foresee a 1-0 win for the home side, or another 1-1 draw.