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IOL News
22-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Mamelodi Sundowns vs Pyramids: A clash of the titans in CAF Champions League final
Lucas Ribeiro Costa Mamelodi Sundowns' Lucas Ribeiro Costa will be a key figure against Pyramids FC. Photo: BackpagePix Image: BackpagePix Mamelodi Sundowns will face CAF Champions League over-achievers Pyramids FC in the first leg of the final on Saturday at Loftus Versfeld (3pm kick-off), with a golden opportunity to etch their name deeper into South African football history. The Brazilians are on the verge of becoming the only South African team to lift the prestigious trophy twice. But standing in their way is a fearless Pyramids outfit making their first-ever appearance in a CAF Champions League final – guaranteeing a historic outcome, regardless of who claims the title. The Egyptian side crushed hopes of an all-South African final by knocking out Orlando Pirates 3-2 on aggregate, while Sundowns completed their own mission by eliminating Egyptian giants Al Ahly 1-0 over two legs, after a goalless first-leg draw. Here, Obakeng Meletse breaks down the three key talking points ahead of the two-legged showdown... History will count for little The sides have previously crossed paths during the 2023 group stage. Teboho Mokoena's 17th-minute goal at the 30 June Stadium was the only strike across both legs, sealing a narrow 1-0 aggregate win for the Pretoria-based outfit. Sundowns have been a model of consistency in the tournament, and several players from that campaign remain in the current squad. Their past travels to Egypt mean they won't be fazed by what's to come – but they'll know that past results won't count for much when the whistle blows on Saturday. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Neutralising Pyramids' attack With the final being played over two legs, it will be crucial for Sundowns not to travel to Egypt in arrears in aggregate. Pyramids have shown no hesitation in taking the game to their opponents. While that leaves them vulnerable at the back, they've proven lethal going forward – making them a serious threat. In the semi-final against Pirates, they came close to snatching a first-leg advantage, with VAR twice denying them the lead. In the second leg, they twice came from behind to win 3-2 and book their place in the final. Since the group stages, they have scored an impressive 21 goals in 10 matches – compared to just seven from Sundowns in the same span. It's clear that the Brazilians will need to find a way to dull their edge without compromising too much at the back. No shame in winning ugly Sundowns have dominated the domestic scene while staying true to their identity – defined by structured build-up, technical superiority, and composure. But continental football brings different demands, and sometimes style has to give way to a practical approach. Despite scoring only seven goals since the group phase – and just three in their last five games – the team still boast the firepower that shattered this season's league scoring record for the most team goals in a season (65). Applying that same league-winning formula may be what gets them across the line in this final. There's no shame in grinding out results if it means lifting the trophy. But if Sundowns can balance their identity with the toughness required on the continent, they may just carve out their place in African football legacy.
IOL News
16-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
From statement wins to crushing their rivals: The matches that crowned Mamelodi Sundowns
Mamelodi Sundowns have another opportunity to celebrate, if they can beat Pyramids in the upcoming CAF Champions League final. Photo: Backpagepix Image: Backpagepix Orlando Pirates did their part in stirring up the Betway Premiership this season, but in the end, Mamelodi Sundowns were simply too consistent and clinical, sealing the title with a game to spare. Here, Obakeng Meletse picks out five of Sundowns' most impressive performances and defining moments from a season that once again showcased their dominance. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Laying the perfect platform – September 17 It was an unusually late start to the season, and with the Brazilians having clinched a seventh consecutive league title in dominant fashion, all eyes were on them to see whether they could maintain that level in the new campaign. They were handed no easy task in their opener — a derby clash against neighbours SuperSport United. Despite fielding a youthful squad the previous season, SuperSport had finished seventh with 44 points and were expected to pose a stern challenge. It wasn't to be, though. Sundowns strolled to a comfortable 2-0 win over Matsatsantsa a Pitori. More than just three points, it was a performance that sent a clear message to the rest of the league: despite the managerial change from Rhulani Mokwena to Manqoba Mngqithi, Sundowns had no intention of relinquishing their dominance. Shock defeat to Rise and Shine casts doubt – October 27 Phuti Mohafe and his Polokwane City side masterminded an early upset, beating the champions 1-0 courtesy of a late goal from Bulelani Nikani in the 82nd minute. Having gone through most of the previous season unbeaten, the result tested Sundowns' ability to respond to adversity. They answered emphatically — embarking on a rampant nine-match winning streak that saw them reclaim and tighten their grip on the top of the table. Sea Robbers routed – February 8 Billed as a potential title decider, this heavyweight clash certainly delivered on drama — but it was one-way traffic, with Sundowns dominating the contest. The 4-1 hammering was one of Pirates' heaviest defeats of the season and arguably derailed their title challenge. From that point forward, they were locked in a futile chase, unable to bridge the gap. Sundowns' emphatic victory was a statement — one that reminded José Riveiro and his men that it takes more than chasing points to dethrone champions. True contenders must win the battles within the battles — where small margins define greatness. Narrow win over the Amakhosi in a hard-fought encounter – March 1 Kaizer Chiefs have been unpredictable all season, and the reverse fixture — a 2-1 win for Sundowns — suggested they would once again have the upper hand. However, the 1-0 win at the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium was far from straightforward. Chiefs arrived determined and pushed Sundowns to the edge, but ultimately it was a 41st-minute strike by Lucas Ribeiro Costa that proved decisive. Despite facing some nervy moments, the Brazilians held firm and secured a crucial three points in a tightly contested match. Brushing aside Stellies – May 11 Many had earmarked the clash with Stellenbosch as a potential stumbling block in Sundowns' title charge. But instead, the Brazilians eased to a 3-0 victory that brought them within a point of sealing the inaugural Betway Premiership crown. Though Pirates remained mathematically in the race, Sundowns' subsequent emphatic victories over Stellies and Chippa United extinguished all remaining hope. The triumphs not only secured an eighth consecutive league title but reaffirmed their status as the undisputed kings of South African football.
IOL News
13-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Chiefs soar while Pirates regroup: Soweto giants plot strong finish after cup drama
José Riveiro will be in charge of Orlando Pirates for the last time on Tuesday night against Golden Arrows. Photo: Itumeleng English Indpendent Media Image: Itumeleng English Indpendent Media Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs' recent showing in the Nedbank Cup final has set tongues wagging — with Chiefs not only claiming bragging rights but also lifting their first trophy in nearly a decade following their 2-1 victory. While both clubs walk away from the season with silverware, neither will be fully satisfied with how their respective league campaigns have unfolded. Now, attention shifts back to the league, where plenty remains unresolved and spots remain up for grabs. Mamelodi Sundowns still need one point from their two remaining matches, and while mathematically the Buccaneers are still in it, their chances are far better off for second place. Chiefs, on the other hand, will be flying high after their trophy win, but they cannot afford to be hungover from their celebrations, because as things stand, they are still missing out on the top eight, and that might just be a spoiler. Here, Obakeng Meletse looks at the rest of the league campaign for both sides and how they can finish the season on a high. BUCS' STILL HAVE A LONG WAY TO GO Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Orlando Pirates vs Golden Arrows The two sides will be meeting for the second time in a week, with Orlando Stadium (19:30 kick-off) set to host what will be Jose Riveiro's final match in charge of the Sea Robbers. The Spanish mentor masterminded Pirates' come-from-behind 2-1 win last week to keep his side's hopes of chasing down a rampant Sundowns, who later responded with commanding wins against Stellenbosch FC (3-0) and Chippa United (3-0). Riveiro is set to vacate his seat earlier than expected and it will be an emotional encounter for the Sea Robbers and their fans, which could play into Manqoba Mngqithi and his side's advantage. Prediction: Pirates will have enough quality and will win 3-1 Orlando Pirates vs TS Galaxy Goals from Relebohile Mofokeng and Thalente Mbatha handed Pirates a comfortable 2-0 win over the Rockets the last time the two sides met in October last year. Adnan Beganovic has done fairly well since taking over from fellow countryman Sead Ramovic but in their chase for the third position, they fell off just at the end as they failed to keep up with Sekhukhune United and Stellenbosch FC. Coming up against a wounded Pirates side after their CAF Champions League elimination and recent Nedbank Cup loss, they will also be having a new leader on the bench following Riveiro's departure but even with that, it will not be enough to shake the quality the Buccaneers have in their ranks. Prediction: Pirates to win 2-0 Supersport United vs Orlando Pirates Matsatsantsa a Pitori have had a season to forget and as they battle their way through a tough relegation battle, they have had to deal with pressure from the outside world, as the rumor that the club might be up for sale might be having its impact on the players. Under the guidance of Gavin Hunt, Matsatsantsa suffered a 3-1 loss in the final of the MTN8 and they later got topped off with a 2-0 defeat in the league. To rub salt into their wounds, an Andre Arendse-led side pushed Pirates close but didn't have luck on their side as they lost 5-4 on penalties following a 2-2 draw in normal time of the Nedbank Cup quarterfinal. Prediction: Pirates will collect all maximum points and win by 3-1 AmaZulu vs Orlando Pirates This could be the toughest test yet in Pirates' league run-in, as they face an unpredictable AmaZulu side brimming with individual quality. Usuthu's inconsistency may make them hard to plan for, but when they do turn up, they've proven capable of troubling any team in the league. Pirates, though rich in depth, may find themselves vulnerable — especially if they enter the clash with little left to play for, which could leave them up for the taking with Usuthu still fighting to finish in the top eight. Prediction: AmaZulu to win 1-0 🎙 Assistant Coach Mandla Ncikazi: 'We just have one responsibility and one mandate- fight for three points' 🆚 @goldenarrowsfc1 🗓️ 13 May 2025 ⌛ 19:30 🏟️ Orlando Stadium 📺 @SuperSportTV ⚫⚪🔴⭐#OrlandoPirates #OnceAlways — Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) May 12, 2025 Orlando Pirates vs Magesi FC Magesi have had an impressive run that has seen them exit the relegation scrap, but coming up against a Pirates side playing in their final match at home in front of the fans could be a tall order for Owen da Gama and his chargers. Dikwena tsa Meetse will be coming back to the Orlando Stadium for the first time since they beat Pirates by 3-2 in the first round of the Carling Knockout competition last year and that could give them a fighting chance in the match. Prediction: Pirates to win 3-1 Pirates will collect 12 points from a possible 15. THE AMAKHOSI'S LAST DUELS Kaizer Chiefs (30 points) have two matches remaining in their league season and they are currently missing out on the Top 8 only on goal difference. Sekhukhune United vs Kaizer Chiefs Amakhosi will next face Sekhukhune United and their timely cup win could not have come at a better time, as it can spur them on to a strong finish in their chase for the top eight. Their biggest challenge will be backing up their recent cup win with a strong performance against a tough Sekhukhune side. Chiefs will face them this Saturday at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, a venue where they have plenty of support, with kickoff set for 15:30. Babina Noko are currently on the hunt for a place in the top three and hold a one-point advantage over Stellenbosch FC and they will not be an easy side to overcome. Prediction: A 1-1 Draw Kaizer Chiefs vs Polokwane City This could be a potential knockout match for both sides in their ambitions to be part of the MTN8 competition next season. Three points separate them without a lot in it in terms of goal difference and with Chiefs playing in front of their faithful at the FNB Stadium, they could be in with a chance to close off the campaign on a high. Rise and Shine walked away with a 2-0 win the last time the two sides met but they have since lost some of their form at the most crucial time in the season. Prediction: Chiefs to win 2-1 Chiefs will collect four points from a possible six in their remaining two matches.
The Star
08-05-2025
- Sport
- The Star
Cardoso hails Mamelodi Sundowns' ‘belief, attitude' in record-breaking PSL win over Chippa United
Obakeng Meletse | Published 26 minutes ago Mamelodi Sundowns took a significant step toward sealing their eighth consecutive league title after a commanding 3-0 win over Chippa United in their Premiership clash on Wednesday night. The emphatic victory allowed the Brazilians to restore their 12-point lead at the top of the table over second-placed Orlando Pirates, who had earlier edged Golden Arrows 2-1 at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Tuesday. Now just four points away from mathematically securing a record-extending 18th top-flight crown, Sundowns remain firmly on course for a historic season, with the possibility of adding a second CAF Champions League title also still alive. Head coach Miguel Cardoso praised his players' determination and composure after what marked their 21st win from 25 league outings this season. 'Every match that finishes 3-0 looks like flowers were coming from the sky, but it was hard work,' Cardoso said after the match. 'We saw a very difficult match from the beginning, with Chippa United closing the back and changing their structure. 'It was the first time in the season they were playing in a back five; they had never played in a back five previously. 'They played a 5-4-1 (formation), trying to close us down in the middle, and there was a moment when I called Tebza (Teboho Mokoena) to the bench, telling him we needed a change. 'He told me that he felt like we were going to score, and I said they only had five minutes, and it happened. 'I am telling this story because the boys have a huge commitment, belief and attitude towards the goals that we have.' The Brazilians may have faced a few hiccups in this season's league campaign compared to their flawless run last term, but their dominance remains undisputed, as reflected by their commanding lead at the top of the table. Goals from Iqraam Rayners, Jayden Adams and Thapelo Maseko not only helped them ease past Chippa United, but also saw them break their own league record for most goals in a season. The 3-0 win took their tally to 57 goals – surpassing the previous mark of 56 – with still three games left to play. 'I get happy when I have scores that go beyond 1-0,' Cardoso continued. 'I always say that we should score one more than the opponent, as I always maintain a zero on our end; then that will be fantastic. 'But that doesn't mean that my attitude is not an aggressive and offensive one. 'It only means that I believe that teams are built on the capacity to understand the core moments of the game.' The Brazilians have not only been a force in front of goal, but they have also conceded the fewest goals this season (13), and Cardoso believes the two aspects go hand in hand. 'Defending well helps you attack well, and attacking well also helps you avoid defending – and even helps you defend better,' the Sundowns mentor said. 'Today, we were not so strong in the moments when we lost the ball because the opponent attacked with long balls, making it difficult to push forward and press. 'It was not easy today to exploit counter-attacks either, because there wasn't a lot of space. But I'm happy we scored a lot of goals – because goals win matches.'
IOL News
01-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Orlando Pirates face big setback in PSL title race after Sekhukhune loss
Relebohile Mofokeng Relebohile Mofokeng, seen here in action against Sekhukhune United, has been at the forefront of Orlando Pirates' campaign, featuring in all 21 of their league fixtures. Photo: ITUMELENG ENGLISH Independent Media Image: ITUMELENG ENGLISH Independent Media Comment by Obakeng Meletse Orlando Pirates may have just played their last strong hand in the Premiership title race. And as close as they came, their latest defeat to Sekhukhune United could prove to be a critical blow – perhaps the final knock that will make it difficult for them to mount a serious pursuit of their long-awaited 10th league crown. Coming into the season, the Buccaneers were widely tipped as the most likely challengers to end Mamelodi Sundowns' dominance. More than any other team, they seemed best equipped to launch a formidable campaign – and for large parts of the season, they did just that. Their MTN8 triumph earlier in the season stands as proof of the remarkable foundation laid by Jose Riveiro and his technical team – measured not just in trophies, but in the consistency and conviction of their performances, especially this season. And while the league title may now be slipping beyond reach following the 1-0 loss to Sekhukhune on Wednesday, the Buccaneers still have a chance to etch their names in history once more as a third consecutive Nedbank Cup lies within grasp, with a monumental Soweto Derby final against Kaizer Chiefs at Moses Mabhida Stadium in just over a week. The Nedbank Cup will now take on major importance, especially in light of the team's most recent results in both the league and the CAF Champions League, where defeats were so significant that they have effectively been eliminated from contention in both competitions. The 1-0 defeat to Babina Noko at the Orlando Stadium was a sobering moment, highlighting the reality that although the points gap between them and the Brazilians may still be narrowed in terms of points, but there still remains a notable difference in squad quality – a concern that might have to be addressed at the end of the season. The Sea Robbers arguably possess one of the strongest teams in the league. But when compared directly to their main rivals, it becomes clear that they fall slightly short in terms of depth and squad options – something that is particularly telling during a congested fixture schedule like the one they are currently navigating. Relebohile Mofokeng, one of South Africa's most promising young players, has been at the forefront of Pirates' campaign this season, featuring in all 21 of their league fixtures. Unsurprisingly, players like him – and others such as Makhehlene Makhaula, who has played 19 out of 21 matches – are beginning to show signs of fatigue not just physically, but also mentally, and it is starting to take a toll on the team's overall performance. And while their semi-final defeat to Pyramids FC in the semi-finals of the Champions League may be partly attributed to inexperience and a few crucial mistakes, it also exposed a deeper issue – the lack of high-impact substitutes who can match the quality of the starting XI. This means that, given the significance of every match, Pirates are forced to rely on their top players even against smaller, lower-ranked teams, just to maintain winning momentum and also to consistently compete against a Sundowns side overflowing with options. That leaves them with no real choice but to field their strongest line-up week in and week out. To compete for top honours and to remain consistent with the best sides will require some adjustments next season.
