Orlando Pirates might be fourth in the Betway Premiership currently, but they are a team to watch this season.
Despite starting their league campaign with back-to-back losses, the Buccaneers have recovered and won their next four Betway Premiership matches, which sees them climb to fourth after six matches. They still trail log leaders Sekhukhune United by seven points, but still have plenty of matches to catch up.
With more than 10 signings made, Pirates have depth in every position and that was evident in their MTN8 campaign. The Sea Robbers won the MTN8 for the fourth consecutive time after overcoming Stellenbosch FC 3-0 in the final.
Why Orlando Pirates are likely to win the league
Last season, the Buccaneers topped the log after seven straight wins but a lack of consistency in the second half saw Mamelodi Sundowns clinch their eighth successive league title. Fatigue and lack of quality on the bench saw Pirates drop points to smaller teams during the critical phase of the season, which allowed Masandawana to run away with the league.
What has changed this season?
Sundowns have lacked the killer instinct they showed last season, which has allowed teams like Kaizer Chiefs and Sekhukhune United to challenge. Orlando Pirates have the better squad overall and once they hit the fifth gear, it will be difficult to stop them.
The likes of Sipho Mbule, Oswin Appollis and Tshepang Moremi have given the Buccaneers options from the bench and whenever they come on, they always deliver and get the team out of trouble.
In defence, the team looks strong, especially with Mbekezeli Mbokazi at the helm and giving strikers a hard time. In their last four matches, Orlando Pirates have not conceded a goal, which highlights their strong defensive structure under Abdeslam Ouaddou.
In the midfield, the Buccaneers have recruited Sihle Nduli, Masindi Nemtajela and Mbule as cover for Thalenthe Mbatha and Makhehlene Makhaula. The trio have impressed this season, and will play a key role if Pirates are to win more than one trophy this season.
With Sundowns uncertain about Miguel Cardoso’s future, it might play into the Buccaneers’ hands. Consistency is key and this could be the one season Orlando Pirates can take advantage of Downs’ poor form.