Makhaula: Pirates Still In The Title Race Despite Sundowns Defeat

Orlando Pirates midfielder Makhehleni Makhaula insists that the painful defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns does not signal the end of their Betway Premiership title ambitions.

Pirates suffered a 2-1 setback in a top-of-the-table clash at FNB Stadium on Wednesday, where Sundowns claimed a crucial victory and ended the Buccaneers’ unbeaten run.

Despite the defeat, the Soweto giants remain top of the league standings with 38 points from 17 matches. Sundowns, who sit second with 35 points from 16 games, have a match in hand — keeping the title race finely poised.

“It’s Not the End of the League” – Makhaula

Makhaula believes there is still everything to play for in the championship race and emphasised the importance of consistency in the remaining fixtures.

“I think I said this during the week that we are not only playing Sundowns in the league,” said Makhaula.

“There are still games that we need to play. It’s not the end of the league. We’re on top of the log, and we need to maintain our run and our dominance — the way we’ve been playing.”

Pirates Reflect on Sundowns Loss

The 36-year-old admitted the result was disappointing but felt the match was evenly contested across two contrasting halves.

“It’s a really disappointing result. It’s not what we wanted, but we followed the plan. I think the game had two halves,” he explained.

“They dominated us in the first half. In the second half, we took the game to them. We started creating opportunities and had more possession.

“Unfortunately, it was just one of those days. We have to accept the loss and move forward.”

Focus Shifts to Nedbank Cup Clash

Pirates will now turn their attention to the Nedbank Cup Round of 16, where they host Casric Stars at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday.

With both domestic silverware and league honours still within reach, Makhaula and Pirates remain confident that their campaign is far from over.