Betway Premiership Preview: Can Orlando Pirates Close the Gap on Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs?

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Betway Premiership Preview: Can Orlando Pirates Close the Gap on Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs?
Image - Pirates

With Mamelodi Sundowns away on CAF Champions League duty this weekend, Orlando Pirates have a prime opportunity to strengthen their Betway Premiership title challenge and close the gap at the top of the table.

The spotlight shifts firmly onto the Soweto giants as they prepare for a crucial home encounter against Magesi FC on Saturday.

This season’s league campaign has shaped into one of the most tightly contested in recent memory, with several clubs putting together credible runs. But the main storyline remains the same: can anyone stop Sundowns from winning a ninth straight Premiership title? Pirates are determined to be that team.

Pirates Positioned to Make a Serious Title Push

After 13 matches, Orlando Pirates sit three points behind Sundowns, and—critically—still hold two games in hand. That cushion gives them one of the strongest mathematical chances of catching the defending champions, provided they maintain momentum through the second half of the season.

Why Pirates’ Recent Form Matters

The Buccaneers’ recent results underline a team finding its rhythm at the perfect time:

  • 3 wins (including strong performances at home)
  • 2 draws
  • 0 defeats in their last five league matches

This run has lifted confidence within the squad and reinforced the belief that a title push is not only possible but achievable.

League’s Best Defensive Record

Perhaps the biggest factor in Pirates’ resurgence is their rock-solid defence. After 13 matches, they boast the best defensive record in the league, having conceded fewer goals than any other side.

Nkosinathi Sibisi Orlando Pirates
Image – Pirates

Under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, the team has displayed better structure, improved pressing, and impressive discipline at the back. Players like Nkosinathi Sibisi, Thabiso Sesane, and goalkeeper Sipho Chaine have been standout performers in a defensive unit that has grown increasingly difficult to break down.

A win over Magesi would also ensure Pirates keep AmaZulu and Kaizer Chiefs at bay as the battle for the top four intensifies.

Magesi FC: Desperate for Points, Fighting for Survival

At the other end of the table, Magesi find themselves anchored in 16th place with 11 points from 14 matches. Their campaign has been turbulent, marked by inconsistent performances and a worrying struggle for goals.

Magesi’s Recent Form

  • 1 win in their last five matches
  • 2 draws
  • 2 losses

While the Limpopo-based club have shown flashes of resilience, particularly in midfield, their inability to convert chances has cost them dearly. Facing the league’s most in-form defensive unit only adds to the challenge.

Relegation Pressure Mounting

For Magesi, every point matters. With the season entering a critical phase, they are fighting not just for survival, but for belief. An upset against Pirates would be seismic—but they enter the clash as heavy underdogs.

New Identity, New Energy at Orlando Amstel Arena

Saturday’s match will unfold at the newly renamed Orlando Amstel Arena, adding an extra layer of energy and anticipation around the fixture. The venue has always held symbolic weight in South African football, and the rebranding marks a modern era for the storied stadium.

Orlando Amstel Stadium

The Buccaneers have been strong at home this season, and with the crowd behind them, they’ll be eager to produce a commanding display.

Elsewhere: Chippa United Also Fighting to Climb Out of Danger

The relegation battle takes another twist in East London, where Chippa United face Durban City at Buffalo Stadium.

Chippa sit 15th on the table with 12 points, just one behind safety. However, confidence in the camp has risen after a morale-boosting 1–0 win over Orbit College, giving them momentum heading into the weekend.

A victory could see them leapfrog out of the playoff position and pull themselves back into mid‑table contention.

Full Betway Premiership Fixtures This Weekend

Friday, 30 January

Richards Bay vs Golden Arrows

Saturday, 31 January

Marumo Gallants vs AmaZulu

Chippa United vs Durban City

Orlando Pirates vs Magesi

Polokwane City vs Orbit College

Sunday, 1 February

TS Galaxy vs Sekhukhune United

<!-- Author Start -->Willis Sob<!-- Author End -->

Willis Sob

Author

Willis Sob is an experienced journalist who has been in the game since 2009, covering major assignments around the continent.
His hunger for African football is unmatched, always getting the best angles and facts to feed the fans and quench their thirst.

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