Manqoba Mngqithi believes Orlando Pirates are capable of pushing Mamelodi Sundowns for the league title but says they might struggle to cope with competing in both CAF Champions League and in the league.
Sundowns maintained their perfect start to the season after registering their fourth straight league win in a 2-1 victory over Royal AM on Thursday.
Downs joined the Buccaneers on four wins out of four matches and they are the only sides who are yet to drop points this season.
While Sundowns are chasing their eighth successive league title, Mngqithi believes that Pirates are the one team that can give them a ran for their money, but the Sundowns mentor also admitted that the Buccaneers have struggled against smaller teams and the added fixture load and rotation could lead to them dropping points.
“They are a team I think that is going to push us, I hope and pray they do have the depth to carry themselves during the group stages and the league because I think that’s where maybe the separation will take place,” Mngqithi told the media
“I do believe they are a very good team and they tried to rotate the squad unfortunately it did not work out very well in the Carling Knockout Cup but honestly speaking I think they are team that will really pose a lot of problems.
“But I still maintain that they are a team that does not do well against small teams and so far they’ve really done well but let’s continue and see. Because that’s where I think maybe the championship will be decided.”
Pirates finished 23 points behind Sundowns last season and lost eight matches against the likes of Richards Bay, Cape Town Spurs, TS Galaxy, Sekhukhune United, SuperSport United, Sundowns and twice to Stellenbosch FC
