Orlando Pirates are not completely out of the league title race, but recent results have left Mamelodi Sundowns firmly in the driving seat.
Masandawana currently sit top of the Betway Premiership with a healthy five-point lead. Although they have played a game more than the Buccaneers, they need just three wins from their remaining fixtures to seal yet another league title.
Pirates, meanwhile, must win all four of their remaining league matches and hope Sundowns drop points if they are to end their 14-year wait for the championship.
Before the AFCON break, the Sea Robbers were in superb form, winning nine of their last 10 league matches. However, costly slip-ups against mid-table opposition allowed Sundowns to capitalise and take control of the race.
Three matches that may have cost Pirates the league title
Defeat to Sundowns
The decision to move their home clash from Orlando Stadium to FNB Stadium arguably worked in Sundowns’ favour.
While Pirates had beaten Downs 2-1 at the same venue last year, their record at Orlando has been formidable, and playing at their traditional home could have provided a crucial edge.
The 2-1 defeat in February ultimately turned the title race on its head, shifting momentum firmly towards Sundowns.
Draw against Siwelele
At home, Pirates were expected to see off Siwelele comfortably, but instead found themselves chasing the game. Although they managed to equalise, they failed to find a winner, dropping vital points that could have kept them top of the table.
Sluggish showing in the Soweto Derby
With the title race heating up, Pirates delivered a flat performance against Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby in the league. Facing a defensive Amakhosi side, they struggled to impose themselves.
Matters worsened when Chiefs took the lead in the 65th minute, leaving the Buccaneers once again chasing both the game and the title. Despite their efforts, they could not find a winner.
A worrying trend has emerged; Pirates have failed to win matches in which they concede first. Their inability to produce late goals or turn draws into victories could prove decisive in the title race.
Adding to their frustration, Richards Bay held Sundowns to a draw shortly after Pirates dropped points in the derby, an opportunity missed for the Buccaneers to take control of their own destiny.