Mamelodi Sundowns’ Betway Premiership reign set to be tested as Orlando Pirates close in

So often, Mamelodi Sundowns have been the hunter— the ruthless predator that has feasted on its prey with the utmost brutality. Their reign as kings of the jungle, that is the Premiership, has been challenged countless times, yet rarely with substance, as all comers have been wiped out in their tracks.

It has been an era of dominance, with the past eight consecutive seasons built on precision, power, and an unrelenting desire to remain at the top.

The 2025/26 Betway Premiership season has already brought back that familiar storyline. 15 challengers have once again lined up to stake their claim, but few have truly looked the part. Many have shown flashes of potential, but not quite like the familiar foe from Soweto, who last season threatened but never quite had enough arsenal to conquer the throne—Orlando Pirates.

Sekhukhune United have made their intentions clear early on, showing that they not only want to hang with the big boys but truly belong there. Their fast start to the campaign has been impressive, as they sit solidly in second place, playing with confidence and cohesion.

Kaizer Chiefs, meanwhile, appeared to be on the path toward rediscovering their old identity, but their challenge has once again lacked conviction—the kind of conviction that sustains a title run. After showing early promise, Amakhosi’s form has faded, leaving them searching for answers.

Yet, despite the bright sparks elsewhere, it remains that familiar foe—Pirates—who continue to cast the biggest shadow over Sundowns’ throne.

Last season, Sundowns powered to their eighth consecutive league title, finishing 13 points clear of the Buccaneers. Pirates had shown plenty of promise under Jose Riveiro, but they eventually ran out of steam in the closing stages.

The turning point came when the champions sent a stern reminder of their superiority, crushing the Sea Robbers 4-1—a result that was far more damaging than merely dropping three points. It was a psychological blow that shifted the momentum firmly in the Brazilians’ favour.

This season, the narrative feels slightly different. Pirates return to Loftus Versfeld Stadium appearing more balanced, hungrier, and far more threatening, bringing with them an impressive six-match winning streak.

With roughly one-third of the season completed, Saturday’s clash carries huge weight—particularly for Sundowns, who have not been as convincing as usual and have already dropped several key points.

They face a Pirates side still hurting from their recent CAF Champions League exit at the hands of Saint Eloi Lupopo, a result that should surely serve as extra motivation.

However, in the bigger scheme of things, that loss means they will no longer be stretched by continental travel, allowing them to channel all their energy into the domestic title race.

Under new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, the Buccaneers have been sharper and mentally tougher, having solved the depth issues that plagued them last season.

Saturday’s showdown may not decide the championship, but it could define momentum. A win for Sundowns could reassert their dominance and send another statement that they remain the undisputed kings. But for Pirates, victory could shift the power dynamic—and finally prove that this time, the hunter may just become the hunted.