Orlando Pirates have reignited their hopes of clinching the Betway Premiership title with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Polokwane City at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium. This crucial win allows the Buccaneers to close the gap on league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns to just 12 points, with three games still in hand. While Pirates still face an uphill battle, their resilience and growing momentum suggest the title race may not be over just yet.
Despite the pressure, Sundowns remain in a commanding position at the top of the table, with 58 points from 23 games. They are favourites to secure what would be an unprecedented eighth consecutive Premiership title. However, with a packed fixture schedule, their ability to manage domestic and continental commitments will be key to maintaining their dominance.
The timing of Pirates’ win is particularly significant as Sundowns shift their focus to continental competition. They are preparing for a tough away trip to Tunisia to face Esperance in the second leg of their CAF Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday. Holding a slender 1–0 lead from the first leg, the Brazilians will need a disciplined performance to book their place in the semi-finals.
Meanwhile, Pirates are also balancing their continental ambitions as they gear up for their own CAF Champions League quarter-final second leg against MC Alger at the Orlando Stadium. They will look to capitalise on their home advantage and continue their strong form in both competitions.
In other African club football action, Zamalek SC will host Stellenbosch FC in Cairo for the second leg of their CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final on Wednesday, 9 April 2025. The tie remains delicately poised, with both teams vying for a place in the semi-finals. African football fans can expect a week filled with high-stakes drama and thrilling encounters across the continent.
