Despite a rocky start to the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season, Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine believes the Buccaneers have what it takes to finally end Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance and lift the league title.
Mixed Start but Steady Recovery
Pirates stumbled out of the gates with back-to-back defeats against Sekhukhune United and Marumo Gallants. This raised early doubts about their campaign. However, the Soweto giants quickly steadied themselves, stringing together three straight victories. They edged Stellenbosch FC and Orbit College 1-0 at Orlando Stadium before dismantling Chippa United 3-0 in Gqeberha, restoring confidence in their camp.
No Longer Sundowns’ ‘Bridesmaids’
Chaine admitted that Pirates have underachieved in recent seasons by constantly finishing behind Masandawana, who have monopolized the league title.
“We kind of let ourselves down the last two to three seasons when we felt like we could have gone a step further. The one everyone is waiting for is the league, and that hasn’t changed this season,” Chaine told Robert Marawa on 947 FM.
For the past three years, the Buccaneers have been forced to settle for cup triumphs and runner-up spots, while Sundowns have cemented their place as the PSL’s perennial champions. Chaine insists that this campaign must be different.
Pirates’ midweek fixture against Magesi FC was postponed due to their CAF Champions League commitments. They are set to face Lioli FC of Lesotho in the preliminary round at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on Saturday afternoon.
Upcoming League Test
Domestically, Pirates will return to action against struggling Siwelele FC, who remain winless after suffering a 2-0 defeat to Durban City at Chatsworth Stadium. Lehlohonolo Seema’s side has now slumped to 13th on the table with four losses in five games.
Pirates, meanwhile, sit sixth on the log with nine points from five matches. They trail surprise leaders Sekhukhune United by seven points but hold a game in hand over Babina Noko.
With renewed momentum, Chaine and his teammates know that consistency will be key if they are to finally step out of Sundowns’ shadow and reclaim league glory.
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