Fikile Mbalula rallies Pirates fans after title race setback following team’s loss to Sundowns

Fikile Mbalula has urged supporters to stay focused after Mamelodi Sundowns defeated Orlando Pirates 2-1 in a Betway Premiership clash at FNB Stadium on Wednesday night.

Taking to X, Mbalula wrote: “Losing is acceptable in a game of football, Sundowns, at their best form did lose to us in the final of Nedbank."

"We just lost a match in the competition to win the league. Let's focus @orlandopirates on winning the war. Yesterday was a battle we lost, but we have not lost the war. Up the bucs!”

Sundowns set the tone in the first half, with Brayan León scoring twice in quick succession. He found the net in the 37th and 41st minutes, giving the visitors firm control before the break.

Both goals were created by Nuno Santos, while Aubrey Modiba also played a role in the second strike.

Pirates responded early in the second half. In the 47th minute, Patrick Maswanganyi struck from range.

His effort took a deflection off Teboho Mokoena and beat Ronwen Williams, reducing the deficit and giving the home side hope.

Despite the fightback, Pirates could not find an equaliser. The defeat ended their 14-game unbeaten run in the league.

They remain top of the table with 38 points. Sundowns have narrowed the gap to three points, sitting on 35 points. With a game in hand, Sundowns could draw level if they win their outstanding fixture.

Masandawana will aim to build on this result in their upcoming matches. Attention now turns to the Soweto Derby next weekend.

A Pirates setback could hand Sundowns full control of the title race and shift momentum in the race for the league trophy.