Orlando Pirates’ title hopes were dealt a major blow after a shocking 2-0 loss to Marumo Gallants, effectively ending their bid for the league title. Despite being the favorites, the Buccaneers suffered their fourth defeat in the last ten matches, leaving them 18 points behind Mamelodi Sundowns, with 14 games still to play this season.
Since January, José Riveiro’s side has been playing catch-up and needed to win all their games in hand to put pressure on Sundowns. However, with Sundowns on a 14-match winning streak, Pirates were relying on Kaizer Chiefs to drop points against their rivals. Unfortunately for them, Chiefs lost despite a valiant effort.
Orlando Pirates will now focus on their upcoming match against Chippa United this Wednesday at 19:30 at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. A win against the Chilli Boys would provide a confidence boost ahead of their Nedbank Cup quarter-final against SuperSport United this Saturday.
With just three matches remaining in the Nedbank Cup, Pirates will be aiming to defend the title they’ve won for the past two seasons. The Buccaneers previously defeated SuperSport 3-1 in the MTN8 earlier this season.
The midweek PSL action also sees Kaizer Chiefs take on Magesi FC at FNB Stadium, while Sundowns face Golden Arrows.
Can the Buccaneers bounce back and get their season back on track?
