Modiba: Sundowns remain composed despite Pirates’ lead ahead of Siwelele clash

Mamelodi Sundowns fullback Aubrey Modiba says the champions remain calm despite trailing Orlando Pirates, insisting the title race is far from settled ahead of Wednesday’s 7.30pm trip to Siwelele FC at Dr Molemela Stadium.

Modiba’s message is one of perspective rather than panic, even as Sundowns enter the match sitting second on the Betway Premiership table after 12 games. With Pirates holding a three-point cushion, the pressure has subtly shifted, but Modiba believes the champions still have the tools and mentality to dictate the remainder of the campaign.

“We’re obviously expected a very tough game, things are tough in the PSL now because teams are doing well but I think we’re ready for the task and we won’t dwell on their last game because it’s a different game,” he said.

Sundowns have grown accustomed to facing opponents who lift their intensity against them, something Modiba says continues to sharpen their competitive edge.

“Teams always get motivated when they play against us which is good for the league but we’ll be prepared for the game and we’ll try to get those three points.”

Wednesday’s clash is their final outing of the year before the AFCON break, a natural checkpoint for a team that has dominated the domestic scene but now finds itself in an early chase. The Bafana Bafana man, who will be heading to Morocco soon, acknowledges the significance of finishing the year with authority, especially with a title defence at stake.

For him, the conversation around pressure is secondary to the collective discipline Sundowns pride themselves on.

“It’s important to focus on ourselves as a team, we know we are second on the log right now but there’s still a long way to go,” he said.

“This is, obviously, the last game of the year so it’s important for us to win that game and get back to where we belong but we can only do that if we don’t focus on other teams and just win our games so we can defend our title.”

Sundowns’ approach remains rooted in routine: regain control, apply pressure, and trust their structure. 

Their CAF Champions League commitments, packed schedule and early-season inconsistencies have contributed to moments where their dominance has been questioned, but Modiba insists the group remains resolute.

The test at the Dr Molemela Stadium comes against a Siwelele side that has been difficult to break down at home, and with a crowd expected to create a vibrant atmosphere, Sundowns know there can be no easing into the contest.

Still, Modiba’s tone suggests a team holding firm to its identity — measured, assured, and quietly confident that the long road ahead still bends in their direction.