An unusual alliance is forming in South African football as Orlando Pirates supporters are placing their hopes on arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs to disrupt Mamelodi Sundowns’ relentless march to the Premier Soccer League (PSL) title.
With Mamelodi Sundowns boasting a commanding 15-point lead over second-placed Orlando Pirates, the Buccaneers faithful are looking for any lifeline to revive their title aspirations.
This Saturday’s clash between Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs at the Lucas Moripe Stadium has become a pivotal fixture, not just for the two teams involved, but also for Pirates’ league campaign.
“Orlando Pirates supporters will unite with Kaizer Chiefs this weekend,” reported Eliot Mahlase of TheSouthAfrican.com. The article highlights the desperation of Pirates supporters who are hoping that “if anyone is to take points from Downs, it’s ‘Khosi 4 life’.”
Sundowns’ recent form has been nothing short of dominant, with the team securing 42 points from their last 15 league matches, leaving Pirates trailing significantly.
The Buccaneers, despite having two games in hand, are aware that only a series of Sundowns slip-ups can bring the title race back into contention.
The unusual situation sees Pirates fans, traditionally fierce rivals of Chiefs, now hoping for a positive result from the Amakhosi.
“The Bucs faithful will be more invested in the Chiefs/Sundowns match than their team this Saturday,” Mahlase noted.
While Chiefs have struggled for consistency this season, they remain one of the few teams capable of challenging Sundowns.
Despite having lost twice to the Brazilians, Chiefs have demonstrated the potential to match any PSL team on their day. A draw, while seemingly a modest result, would be considered a victory for both Chiefs and Pirates supporters.
However, the reality remains that a Chiefs victory against the high-flying Sundowns is considered unlikely.
Adding to the drama, Orlando Pirates are set to play Marumo Gallants in Bloemfontein shortly after the Chiefs-Sundowns match concludes.
Regardless of the outcome in Atteridgeville, Pirates need a win to maintain any semblance of pressure on Sundowns.
