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Mofokeng, Riveiro, Maswanganyi 16-9GOAL
Dingizwe Gwala

Why Orlando Pirates must win big against Marumo Gallants to have any hope of the PSL title as Mamelodi Sundowns remain on top

Orlando Pirates need to rediscover their winning touch on Tuesday afternoon against Marumo Gallants if they are to stand up against bullish Sundowns.

Amid the turmoil surrounding Mamelodi Sundowns following an abrupt change of personnel in the coaching front, they continue to dominate the PSL, having secured four consecutive league victories.

Now, they stand at the top of the table heading into Christmas - unless Pirates manage to defeat Marumo Gallants by a staggering six unanswered goals. When Sundowns sit atop the standings at Christmas, it’s usually a sign that the title race is almost theirs to lose. For Pirates, maintaining a winning streak in the league is crucial to keeping the pressure on Sundowns.

The sight of Sundowns defeating Stellenbosch, especially after Pirates' shock defeat to the same team, is a psychological blow. A commanding victory over Gallants is the only way to shake off that sting. With the absence of talisman Patrick Maswanganyi, who is suspended, Pirates coach Jose Riveiro will be banking on Relebohile Mofokeng to turn on the heat for the Buccaneers.

Pirates must recognize the gravity of this upcoming match - it’s a chance to not only get back on track but also prove they remain serious title contenders. After their slip-up against Stellenbosch, Sundowns have seized control of the race, and it’s up to Pirates to rally and stay within striking distance.

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  • mamelodi sundownsGetty Images

    Sundowns know how to dominate

    With an unprecedented seven consecutive league titles, it’s clear that the Brazilians possess the secret formula for conquering the long, gruelling marathon that is the league race. Their strategy is simple yet effective: a powerful sprint from the start. Once they gain momentum, it’s virtually impossible to stop them, as no team has managed to challenge their dominance in the past seven seasons. However, the Buccaneers are now emerging as serious contenders, with an eye on disrupting Sundowns' goal of securing an extraordinary tenth consecutive title.

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  • No Maema, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    Seize the opportunity: Sundowns' goal scoring woes

    In recent matches, Sundowns have shown unusual hesitancy in front of goal. In their last three outings - against Raja Casablanca and FAR Rabat in the Caf Champions League, as well as Stellenbosch in the PSL - the Brazilians have struggled to find the back of the net, failing to score more than once in each game. Iqraam Rayners has often been their saviour, literally carrying the team on his shoulders when needed. With Sundowns’ goal difference still five better than Pirates, the Buccaneers must act fast to close that gap, as the league title could very well be decided by goal difference.

  • Bathusi Aubaas, Iqraam Rayners and Lucas Ribeiro, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    A real opportunity to dethrone Sundowns

    If there was ever a season when Sundowns’ reign seemed genuinely threatened, it’s this one. With nine games played by Sundowns and Pirates having one less match, the battle for supremacy is intensifying. A win for Pirates against Gallants is crucial to level the points with the defending champions and keep the pressure on. The title race has been neck-and-neck from the very beginning, and with Sundowns showing signs of vulnerability, the Buccaneers have a golden opportunity to make their move. A statement win against Gallants is a must - one that would not only propel them up the table but send a strong message to Sundowns that the title is not a foregone conclusion.

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  • Jose Riveiro, Orlando Pirates, October 2024Backpagepix

    Riveiro MUST deliver in the championship

    José Riveiro’s trophy cabinet at Pirates is impressive, with five major titles under his belt, including the Carling Black Label Cup with the PSL All-Star team this past Saturday. His status as a cup specialist is undeniable. However, for Pirates’ faithful, this is not enough. The league title is the ultimate prize, and Riveiro must prove he can deliver it. This season is a defining moment for the coach - he has the squad, the support, and the momentum to make a serious challenge. The fans are waiting, and now, it’s time for Riveiro to show that he can turn potential into triumph.

  • Relebohile Mofokeng Orlando PiratesBackpagepix

    Details about the match

    Venue: Orlando Stadium

    Kick-off: 15h00

    Channel: DStv channel 202

    All you need to know about this fixture

    Pirates Predicted XI vs Gallants

  • Orlando Pirates fansBackpagepix

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