Mamelodi Sundowns v Orlando Pirates, Justin ShongaBackpagepix

COMMENT: Why Orlando Pirates v Mamelodi Sundowns could decide the PSL title

Premier Soccer League (PSL) title contenders Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates will square off on Monday.

The encounter which is set to take place at Bucs' historic home ground, Orlando Stadium and it is shaped into a title decider.

The Brazilians are sitting at the top of the league standings - two points above their closest rivals Bidvest Wits, who are placed second.

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Mamelodi Sundowns v Orlando Pirates, Vincent PuleBackpagepix

On the other hand, four-time PSL champions Pirates find themselves in third place - three points behind Sundowns with both teams having a game in hand.

A victory for the Buccaneers will see Milutin 'Micho' Sredojevic's side replace the Brazilians at the top of the standings with six matches left.

This would blow the title race wide open as fifth-placed and three-time PSL champions SuperSport United would be five points behind the new leader's Pirates.

While, fourth-placed Cape Town City, who are currently level on points with Pirates, would see their chances of winning their maiden PSL title boosted.

PSL Title PS

However, Sundowns will take control of the title race if they extend their unbeaten run against Pirates at the Orlando Stadium with a victory next week

The Tshwane giants, who last tasted defeat away to the Buccaneers in 2011, would open a five-point lead at the top of the standings.

Their rivals would have little chance of catching them unless the standards set by Pitso Mosimane's side slip which is unlikely.

The defending champions tend to be more consistent towards the end of the campaign between April and May as they make a final push for the title.

Pitso Mosimane head coach of Mamelodi SundownsGallo

While their fellow title contenders often run out of steam in the last few months of the season.

A draw would also favour Sundowns as they would extend their lead to three points at the top and remain in the driving seat.

Mosimane, who has clinched three of the last five PSL titles, knows exactly what it takes to cross the finishing line first once his side is the driving seat.

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