Orlando Pirates v Mamelodi Sundowns – a clash of fine margins
Phakaaathi takes a look at their last five meetings, which give an idea of just how tight Saturday's game in Durban could be.
The clash between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns has become a highly anticipated event on the South African football calendar over the past few years. Both teams have consistently finished at the top of the Betway Premiership for the last four seasons, with Pirates claiming the crown last season. However, Sundowns have made the MTN8 their own, defeating Pirates in the semifinals last year and winning their fourth consecutive trophy.
A closer look at their last five meetings suggests that Saturday's MTN8 final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium could be just as tight. In February 2026, Pirates took on Sundowns at FNB Stadium, winning 1-2 in a match that saw Brayan Leon score twice for the Buccaneers. The match was significant due to the demand for tickets, prompting Pirates to move the game to a larger venue.
Last season's first Premiership clash was notable for an incredible goal from 20-year-old midfielder Cemran Dansin, who scored a volley from 25 meters out, leaving Ronwen Williams motionless. Although Sundowns scored again in the second half, Pirates managed to win the match 1-1 after extra time.
In the MTN8 semifinal second leg on August 23, 2025, the scores were tied at 1-1 after the first leg in Orlando. Sundowns took the lead in the 17th minute with a goal by Iqraam Rayners, while Pirates equalized through Kamogelo Sebelebele in the 73rd minute. The match went to a penalty shootout, where Sipho Chaine's flying saves helped Pirates secure a 4-2 victory and advance to the final.
Another closely contested match occurred in the MTN8 semifinal first leg on August 16, 2025, as the scores ended in a 1-1 draw. Teboho Mokoena opened the scoring for Sundowns in the 37th minute, while Kamogelo Sebelebele scored a late equalizer for Pirates, preventing Sundowns' final victory.
Pirates' last outright win over Sundowns came in March 2025 when Relebohile Mofokeng scored twice to give Pirates a 2-1 Betway Premiership victory at FNB Stadium. Despite Sundowns' efforts to regain the lead, the only goal they managed in the end was scored by Khuliso Mudau in the 66th minute. In the end, Sundowns lifted the Premiership title, finishing eight points clear of Pirates.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
