Are you 24 or older?

Help us verify your age by providing an honest response. This site contains gambling advertising for 24+.

Age-restricted content

You’re not old enough to view betting content. You’ll be redirected to the homepage.

Goal.com
LiveTickets
+18 | Commercial Content | T&C's Apply | Play Responsibly | Publishing Principles
Explore Betting on GOAL
Orlando Pirates, March 2026Backpage
Kiplagat Sang

The pressure is on Mamelodi Sundowns! Orlando Pirates given upper hand in tight PSL title race 'the situation is now a bit difficult'

Premier Soccer League
Mamelodi Sundowns FC
Polokwane City vs Mamelodi Sundowns FC
Polokwane City
Mamelodi Sundowns FC vs Polokwane City
Mamelodi Sundowns FC vs Kaizer Chiefs
Kaizer Chiefs
Stellenbosch FC vs Orlando Pirates
Stellenbosch FC
Orlando Pirates

There is no clear leader in the title marathon between Bucs and Masandawana with a few games to go. The Tshwane giants had a chance to open the gap on Sunday after the Sea Robbers had been held in the Soweto Derby, but were frustrated by Richards Bay, which means the gap remained relatively where it was before.

  • Mamelodi Sundowns, April 2026Backpage

    Neck-to-neck race

    There is only one point separating Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns as the Premier Soccer League heads towards its conclusion.

    Pirates lead with 59 points, and second-placed Sundowns, with 58, could go top if they win their Tuesday match against Polokwane City.

    • Advertisement
  • Mamelodi Sundowns, April 2026Mamelodi Sundowns

    Pressure on Sundowns

    The debate on the PSL race is now about who is likely to win the title. For former Pirates and Sundowns star Katlego Mashego, the race is tight, but he believes the Soweto giants are in a better place to emerge winners.

    "Recently, it looks like they (Sundowns) are no longer playing with the same desire. It might not necessarily be hope, but I’m not sure whether this is because of the Champions League final or other factors,” Mashego told KickOff.

    "Currently, they seem to play with the expectation of just winning. It seems they are merely fulfilling their fixtures, aiming to score once and secure the victory. Their level of aggression has gone down compared to previous performances."

  • Mamelodi Sundowns, Marumo Gallants, March 2026Backpage

    Difficult situation

    "Their approach suggests an expectation of victory, which is not always possible against teams fighting for their survival and for a place in the Top Eight. With the season now coming to an end, Sundowns must pull up their socks," he added.

    "The situation is now a bit difficult. I think as long as Pirates do not lose points, they remain in a favourable position."

    • ENJOYED THIS STORY?

    Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

    Add as preferred source on Google

  • Advantage Pirates?

    According to Mashego, Downs are under immense pressure, and that could work in favour of the MTN8 and Carling Knockout champions.

    “The pressure on Sundowns to win has just gone up," the former SuperSport United and Moroka Swallows stated.

    "If Sundowns drop points in any of their remaining games and Pirates maintain the top position, the advantage will favour Pirates, given their proven ability to win matches."