PSL Title Race heating up

The brief but intense period between the October and November international breaks has provided a glimpse into the true shape of the title race this season. While Mamelodi Sundowns remain the benchmark, the period has confirmed a significant shift in competition, with both Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs demonstrating the sustained, winning form necessary to keep pace with the champions. Let’s review where the three front-runners currently stand.

Mamelodi Sundowns

For years, Sundowns have used the early part of the season to establish an unassailable lead. Yet, recent inconsistencies (they haven’t won three in a row at any point this season) and dip in their historical points accumulation (25 points in 12 games, their lowest at this stage in 6 years), suggest a rare vulnerability.

While they are still top of the table, the comparative slowdown in league points collected suggests their dominance is being tested in a way not seen in recent memory. The trendline shows how they are not at the usual pace characteristic of champions.

Orlando Pirates

The major storyline of the period belongs to Orlando Pirates. They have been relentless in the league and Cups – reaching both MTN8 and Carling Cup finals. Recently, the Buccaneers snatched 7 points from a possible 9 in the league, an impressive return that sees them sit second with 22 points. This 22-point total is the second-highest Pirates have achieved after 10 games since the 2019/20 Covid-struck campaign.

The fact that they have maintained their blistering form through a compressed schedule bodes well for their multi-competition run-in, which culminates in the Carling Knockout Final on December 6th. Pirates’ point-total (black solid line) places them right along champions’ trail, although their Expected Points total (black dotted line) opens up the door to other challengers.

Kaizer Chiefs

Kaizer Chiefs, operating under their co-coaching structure, also made a definitive statement of late. Their 4-1 win against Orbit College was the first time they scored four goals against league opposition since October 2021. The Glamour Boys took 7 points from an available 9 in their recent fixtures, and impressively only conceded twice during that spell.

Their current tally of 22 points from 11 games is the second-highest point total since 2019/20, a key metric indicating genuine title contention form. This points-per-game ratio firmly aligns Chiefs with the historical pace required of teams that finish in the top three, suggesting their current position is earned and sustainable.

As the PSL prepares for the next phase, a short yet intense flurry of fixtures before the AFCON break, the log table speaks volumes. The traditionally wide gulf separating Sundowns from the rest has narrowed, with Pirates and Chiefs breathing down their necks. The inevitable fixture congestion, particularly the conflict between league and CAF action, will be the true test of squad depth and management prowess. For the first time in several seasons, the title race looks genuinely tight.