Mamelodi Sundowns defeat Orlando Pirates to end 14-match unbeaten streak and tighten Betway Premiership title race in Johannesburg

Wednesday evening at FNB Stadium saw one of the season’s most anticipated clashes as Mamelodi Sundowns visited Orlando Pirates.

In a pulsating encounter between the league’s top two sides, the Tshwane giants emerged with a 2-1 victory, reigniting the Betway Premiership title race.

The win was a statement: Sundowns are very much in the hunt for the top spot, and the league remains wide open as the season enters its second half.

Brayan León: The Difference Maker

Colombian striker Brayan León proved decisive once again.

He opened the scoring in the 37th minute and doubled the lead just four minutes later, putting Sundowns firmly in control before the halftime whistle.

Orlando Pirates fought back early in the second half.

Just two minutes after the restart, Patrick Maswanganyi pulled one back, injecting hope into the home side.

But despite the Buccaneers’ push, Sundowns’ defence held firm, managing the game expertly to secure the three points.

End of an Unbeaten Streak

The loss marked Orlando Pirates’ first league defeat since August 2025, ending a 14-match unbeaten run.

While the defeat stings, the Buccaneers still lead the Betway Premiership by three points.

Sundowns, however, hold a crucial game in hand — a potential advantage as the title race tightens.

Upcoming Fixtures

Both teams now turn their attention to cup competitions and upcoming league matches.

Orlando Pirates face a Nedbank Cup Round of 16 match against Casric Stars on Saturday, 21 February at 18:00, before returning to league action in a blockbuster Soweto derby against Kaizer Chiefs on 28 February at 15:30.

Mamelodi Sundowns also have a Nedbank Cup tie, taking on TS Galaxy on Saturday, 21 February at 15:00.

Their next league outing sees them travel to Moses Mabhida Stadium to face AmaZulu FC on Tuesday, 24 February at 19:30.

Meanwhile, Stellenbosch FC and Magesi FC shared points in Wednesday’s other league fixture, drawing 1-1.

Standout Players and Squad Notes

Orlando Pirates’ starting XI included Chaine, Sibisi, Seema, Hotto, Sebelebele, Makhaula, Nemtajela, Maswanganyi, Mofokeng, Appollis, and Mbuthuma.

Key substitutes were Buthelezi, Chabatsane, Ndaba, Van Rooyen, Mbule, Mariko, Moremi, Msendami, and De Jong.

Sundowns fielded Williams, Ndamane, Kekana, Mudau, Modiba, Mokoena, Adams, Morena, Matthews, Santos, and León, with Onyango, Johannes, Lunga, Reisinho, Allende, Zwane, Letlhaku, Mothiba, and Shalulile on the bench.

What’s Next?

With the league table tightening, every point matters.

Sundowns now have momentum on their side, and their game in hand could prove pivotal in the title race.

Orlando Pirates, meanwhile, will aim to bounce back quickly in the cup and league fixtures, particularly with a high-profile Soweto derby looming.

Fans can expect a thrilling second half of the season as the top teams jostle for supremacy.

Summary

Mamelodi Sundowns defeated Orlando Pirates 2-1 at FNB Stadium, ending Pirates’ 14-match unbeaten streak and closing the gap at the top of the Betway Premiership to three points.

Brayan León scored both goals for Sundowns, while Patrick Maswanganyi pulled one back for the Buccaneers.

Sundowns now hold a crucial game in hand, keeping the title race wide open.

Both teams have upcoming Nedbank Cup fixtures and league matches that could shape the final standings.