Orlando Pirates have opened the door for Mamelodi Sundowns to run away with the Betway Premiership following their 1-1 draw with Siwelele this past weekend.
The draw puts the Buccaneers just a point clear of their rivals, but Masandawana have a game in hand midweek.
A win against Marumo Gallants at home will see Sundowns open up a two-point gap, which no doubt gives the Brazilians a psychological advantage going into the last nine matches of the season.
Why Orlando Pirates are in trouble?
On Friday, Downs destroyed Stade Malien 3-0 at home in the first leg of the CAF Champions League quarter-final. A clinical and convincing win means Downs can now focus solely on Tuesday’s league clash against Gallants.
If the Malians had put up a brave fight and lost 1-0, all focus would have been shifted to the second leg. That would have forced Sundowns to face Gallants with a weaker side, opening a door for an upset.
As things stand, Sundowns can afford to play the likes of Divine Lunga, Peter Shalulile and Marcel Allende in their starting eleven for their second leg and rest their key players.
Orlando Pirates will not benefit if Downs have it easier in the Champions League. Even if Masandawana can be a game or two behind, they might even be level on points with their rivals if the Sea Robbers succumb under pressure.
Orlando Pirates will not get Nkota back
Earlier this month, there were rumours that Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq was considering selling former Orlando Pirates star Mohau Nkota.
The Buccaneers were mentioned as a potential destination for the winger, even if it was just a loan. However, this now seems unlikely, as there have been discussions about a development loan to Benfica instead. Al-Ettifaq has reportedly set a price tag of €3 million on the former Orlando Pirates player.