Orlando Pirates find themselves nine points behind Mamelodi Sundowns, but with two games in hand, they have a chance to close the gap to just three points.
Sundowns’ incredible ten-game winning streak came to an unexpected halt, as TS Galaxy handed them a 1-0 defeat. This loss marked Miguel Cardoso’s first defeat as Sundowns’ head coach, and Galaxy’s victory propelled them to fourth place, level on points with both Sekhukhune United and Kaizer Chiefs.
Before this surprising result, Orlando Pirates were left with little hope of catching Sundowns after suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat at the hands of the defending champions. Sundowns appeared far superior to the Buccaneers, but TS Galaxy’s win against Sundowns has given Pirates a glimmer of hope. Despite having only 25% possession in the game, Galaxy defended resolutely, handing Sundowns their second loss of the season.
This unexpected turn of events has given Orlando Pirates a lifeline. After being 23 points behind Sundowns last season, the Sea Robbers now have a chance to mount a serious title challenge. They must seize this opportunity and push forward.
Pirates’ next match against Sundowns, set for March 15, could be pivotal in deciding the title race.
Riveiro Defends Tactical Decisions
After the heavy loss to Sundowns, Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro defended his decision to replace the injured, defensive-minded Thalente Mbatha with more attack-oriented Kabelo Dlamini. Riveiro explained, “Kabelo was helping us a lot on the ball, always giving us extra time to organize ourselves. In the second half, he was the one giving us balance in midfield.
“Even in our defense, he was winning duels and helping the center-backs. It’s easy to think that Makhaula is more defensive and Kabelo is more offensive, but in this team, we all defend when we don’t have the ball and we all try to attack.”
