Orlando Pirates can end Mamelodi Sundowns reign - Former Buccaneer
Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Edelbert Dinha believes the team’s improved squad depth and quality will finally end Mamelodi Sundowns’ eight-year league title reign, as Pirates currently lead the Betway Premiership with 35 points after 15 games. Picture: BackpagePix
Image: BackpagePix
Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Edelbert Dinha is confident that the Soweto Giants can finally end the reign of Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership.
Pirates currently top the league on 35 points after 15 games, three ahead of Sundowns.
Sundowns, of course, have won the last eight league titles in a row, and even though they have slipped behind Pirates, they are still favourites at the halfway stage of the season.
Pirates have finished second behind Sundowns the last three seasons in a row, but finally seem ready to make the step up according to Dinha.
Dinha Believes Pirates’ Squad Depth and Quality Will Lead to League Success
“This season is better than last season, and I think they have enough depth in their squad because they have signed enough quality players,” Dinha told SportsBoom.co.za.
“They will be gunning for the league, and it is something they have been wanting to achieve. Being on top of the league is not a fluke; they are playing well, winning games, scoring consistently, and defending effectively.
“With the number of options they have in their squad, they can go all the way to win it.”
Dinha, now aged 52, who made over 50 appearances for Pirates between 2002 and 2006, said the quality of the current squad will be their biggest asset.
“They have so many good players and a team that can challenge Sundowns pound for pound. Also, considering the number of players in the national team, it says it all—so the chances of winning the league are very high.”
Pirates are next in league action on Saturday, when they host Marumo Gallants at Orlando Stadium.