Orlando Pirates’ unbeaten run puts Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance under threat

Going into the 2025/26 season, many assumed it would be business as usual — Mamelodi Sundowns cruising to another title while everyone else scrambled for second. 

But 12 games in, the narrative is shifting. Orlando Pirates, after their win over Durban City FC on Saturday, have surged to the top of the Betway Premiership — three points clear of Sundowns, with both teams having played the same number of matches. 

It is early enough to stay cautious, but far enough into the campaign to accept a new reality: Pirates have a genuine chance to win the league.

Their lead is not an accident. Pirates are unbeaten in their last 11 league matches, claiming 10 wins from 13 outings, and their rhythm — both in attack and defence — is sharp and consistent. 

Sundowns, meanwhile, are far from their vintage best, making uncharacteristic errors and struggling to find the ruthless dominance that has defined their eight-year reign. 

The aura that once surrounded them has dimmed, even if only slightly, and in a title race, those moments of vulnerability can be decisive.

What strengthens Pirates’ case even further is their growing influence on the national team. 

The Sea Robbers now form the core of Bafana Bafana, a privilege long associated with Sundowns, suggesting that consistency and high-level performance are not beyond them. 

Their players’ exposure to international football has sharpened their competitiveness, belief and understanding of pressure — qualities that become invaluable in the final stretch of a league campaign.

This blend of form, depth and national-team experience gives Pirates more than just a statistical edge. It gives them psychological momentum. 

They are showing they can grind results, outplay tough opponents and remain unbeaten over long stretches — the building blocks of a champion team. 

Confidence is growing with every match, and crucially, they are playing with a sense of identity and purpose long demanded by their supporters.

For Sundowns, the pressure is suddenly different. The resting place is no longer comfortably first — it is a chase. 

This flips the league narrative from routine dominance to a genuine duel. Downs have recovered from slow starts before, but this time the challenger is stronger, more cohesive, and more ambitious than in previous seasons. 

Pirates are not merely hoping for Sundowns to slip; they are playing well enough to force the issue themselves.

If the Sea Robbers maintain this pace, manage their squad wisely and avoid key injuries, they could realistically end Sundowns’ long-standing reign. 

Their rise is not just a challenge to the champions; it signals a potential power shift in South African football.

The 2025/26 season might well be the one where Pirates are no longer chasing. They are leading — and this time, they look ready to stay there.