PSL
PSL: Orlando Pirates vs Durban City, preview and predictions
It is with confidence to say that Orlando Pirates have the PSL title firmly in their hands when they welcome Durban City to Orlando Stadium on Saturday in what could be one of the most decisive fixtures of their season.
After Mamelodi Sundowns suffered a shocking 3-2 defeat to TS Galaxy, the title race has taken a dramatic turn, and many supporters and analysts have already started tipping Pirates as the new PSL league champions in waiting.
Orlando Pirates
The Sea Robbers are currently sitting second on the table with 65 points, just three behind Sundowns who have completed their league campaign on 68 points.
However, Pirates hold a crucial advantage with a better goal difference, which means the equation is simple, win their remaining matches and the trophy could be heading back to Soweto.
A victory here changes everything. A win over the KwaZulu-Natal outfit would not only close the gap but could push Pirates into pole position depending on the final standings. It would bring them even closer to a league crown they last lifted during the 2011/12 season, ending more than a decade of waiting and frustration.
Pirates head into this clash with real confidence, especially at Orlando Stadium where they have turned their home ground into a fortress.
The atmosphere in Soweto has often lifted the team when it matters most and Saturday is expected to be no different. With their attacking rhythm clicking at the right time, Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side will believe they can dominate this fixture from the first whistle.
Durban City
On the other hand Durban City arrive with their own sense of accomplishment after securing the Nedbank Cup. That trophy has already defined their season and there is a feeling that their competitive edge in the league may not match that of a Pirates side chasing the biggest prize in South African football.
Verdict
Pirates can win by two goals or more given their home advantage, their momentum and the urgency of the situation. They have shown the ability to overwhelm opponents at home and their superior goal difference underlines how dangerous they have been in front of goal this season.
With everything on the line, the Soweto giants know this is the moment to take control and deliver a statement performance in front of their home crowd.
