Orlando Pirates need to strike while the iron is hot to end Mamelodi Sundowns’ domination, says former Buccaneer
Former Orlando Pirates striker Andries Sebola believes the team, under new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, has the potential to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance in the Betway Premiership this season. Picture: Itumeleng English/Independent Media
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Media
Since Mamelodi Sundowns have won the last three league titles in a row, it’s difficult to see their domination of local football ending any time soon.
However, their vice-grip on the Betway Premiership has to come to an end at some point. But the burning question for neutrals is: Has that time come?
Probably not, given the resources and squad quality of Sundowns.
If any team can challenge the mighty Sundowns though, it has to be Orlando Pirates. In fact, Pirates have finished second to Sundowns in the league the last three seasons in a row.
Former Pirates Striker Andries Sebola Believes His Old Side Have What It Takes to Rule the Land
Former Pirates striker Andries Sebola believes his old side have what it takes to rule the land with new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou in his first season with the Soweto Giants.
“So far so good, I cannot falter him [Abdeslam Ouaddou]. With the new acquisitions the club has given him, with the likes of Tshepang Moremi and Oswin Appollis, it will be up to him to ensure they continue to deliver results,” Sebola told SportsBoom.co.za in an exclusive interview.
“At a club like Pirates, it’s all about winning because whether you play home or away, the support will always come in numbers. So, it’s just about him finding the right combinations.”
Pirates made a slow start to their current league campaign, but after seven games they are now up to third in the table. Though they have lost twice already, they are yet to draw a match as they’ve won five games.
It means Pirates are on 15 points, six behind Sundowns but with three games in hand.
“They have to take advantage of the fact that Sundowns is struggling. But I can see them challenging Sundowns and going all the way to win the league title, which is more important, together with getting as far as they can in the Caf Champions League, but it will not be easy.”