Former South Africa captain Hlatshwayo backs Orlando Pirates to end Sundowns’ reign

Former South Africa captain Thulani Hlatshwayo believes Orlando Pirates are firmly in control of the Betway Premiership title race and has tipped them to finally dethrone reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns.

With the season entering its decisive phase, Pirates currently sit at the top of the PSL standings—holding a slender one-point lead over Sundowns, with a game in hand. It marks their strongest title push in nearly a decade, and Hlatshwayo is convinced the advantage lies with the Soweto giants.

“For me, it’s for Pirates to lose,” Hlatshwayo said on the Arena Sports Show. “Everywhere I go, people ask who I think will win the league… but when you look at the last five games, Pirates have been in control.”

The former Pirates defender pointed to their recent performances as evidence of a team capable of going all the way, even suggesting they could have widened their goal difference further in matches like their encounter against TS Galaxy.

“They could have scored more goals… and it might come down to goal difference,” he added, highlighting just how tight the race could become.

Despite backing Pirates, Hlatshwayo was quick to acknowledge the ever-present threat posed by Sundowns, who have dominated South African football in recent years and are chasing a ninth consecutive league title.

“Discipline is key, and Sundowns have done it before—they’re experienced in this situation,” he noted. “They know how to pick up form at this stage of the season.”

Still, Hlatshwayo insists that the momentum, belief, and current standing give Pirates the upper hand as the campaign heads toward its climax.

For the Buccaneers, the opportunity is clear: maintain composure, keep winning, and the title will be theirs. For Sundowns, it’s a familiar chase—one that has defined their dominance over the years.