Is it time for Orlando Pirates to finally break Mamelodi Sundowns’ reign?
Orlando Pirates are poised to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns’ eight-year league title reign, with both teams currently neck and neck in the Betway Premiership standings. Seen here: Orlando Pirates player Evidence Makgopa challenges for the ball against Polokwane City player Lebohang Nkaki during the Betway Premiership League at Orlando Stadium in Soweto. Picture: Itumeleng English/Independent Media
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Media
Tiger Woods, Manchester United, and Mamelodi Sundowns all have one thing in common - they have all dominated to such an extent that it becomes boring.
Woods in the early 2000s was unstoppable, and whenever he was leading going into the final round, you could probably bet your car he was going to win.
United for almost 20 years were the dominant force in English football under Alex Ferguson, and now Sundowns in South African football cannot be matched.
However, like United when Ferguson left in 2013 and Woods when his sex scandal broke in late 2009 - all eras of domination have to come to an end.
Sundowns’ Dominance Challenged: Can Orlando Pirates Break the Streak?
Sundowns have won the last eight league titles in a row. That in itself is incredible, and of course, they once again top the Betway Premiership table.
However, they can’t be described as dominant this season as they’ve lost three times already in 10 matches and drawn one.
Though they are on top with 21 points, they are just one point ahead of Sekhukhune United in second, who have played nine matches.
The best challenger to the Sundowns’ throne though, has to be third-placed Orlando Pirates at just three points behind with two games in hand. In the Soweto Giants, there is genuine belief they can push Sundowns all the way. Lending credence to this belief is that Pirates have finished second to Sundowns in the league the last three seasons.
The only problem is that Sundowns are not just the richest club in South Africa, but on the entire continent.
Sundowns are currently valued at a staggering R666.40 million. Pirates are number two in SA and third in Africa at R444.30 million.
Therefore, if it comes down to money, Sundowns still have the edge.
Football is decided on the pitch though, and this could finally be the season when the race to the league title could actually be interesting again.
* The views expressed are not necessarily the views of IOL or Independent Media.
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