Win or bust: Jose Riveiro and Orlando Pirates face a do-or-die battle to stop Mamelodi Sundowns' dominance

Despite Bucs ambitions of reclaiming domestic dominance, their inconsistency has left them trailing Sundowns by 18 points. A defeat would not only widen the gap but also kill any psychological hope of a late surge for the title. 

The Brazilians have already demonstrated their ability to steamroll through the league, and if they claim victory in this fixture at FNB Stadium, they will be uncatchable. For neutrals, it means the league race is effectively over long before the final stretch, a scenario that could drain excitement from the season’s climax.

A Pirates defeat would solidify Sundowns’ status as untouchable, allowing them to navigate the remainder of the campaign without any real pressure. It would also give them the luxury of rotating their squad, prioritising their Caf Champions League ambitions while still comfortably wrapping up yet another league title. 

With no genuine challengers left standing, Miguel Cardoso’s side could walk their way to silverware, further deepening the gap between them and the rest of the clubs on the domestic scene.

Riveiro’s contract expires in June, and while he has delivered cup success, his tenure will ultimately be judged on Pirates’ ability to challenge for the league. If he fails to mount a serious title bid again, questions will inevitably arise about whether he is the right man to take the club forward. 

Would he even want to stay? The Spanish coach has largely been backed by management, but with Sundowns’ dominance showing no signs of slowing down, he might opt to walk away rather than continue fighting a seemingly unwinnable battle.

If Riveiro departs, Pirates could face another period of transition, which often leads to squad uncertainty. The club has invested in young talents such as Relebohile Mofokeng, Mohau Nkota, Siyabonga Ndlozi and Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and their development could be disrupted by managerial instability. 

Also, key senior players might reconsider their futures if the club appears directionless. The risk of losing both experienced heads and promising prospects could set Pirates back years in their bid to dethrone Sundowns.

While a single game doesn’t define a season, this particular fixture holds immense weight for Pirates. Win, and they keep their title dreams alive, at least for now.

Lose, and it could trigger a domino effect of disappointment, managerial uncertainty and squad instability. The stakes could not be higher, making this a true do-or-die moment for Riveiro and his team.

PSL news

Orlando Pirates page

Mamelodi Sundowns page

PSL fixtures & results