iDiski TV analyst Junior Khanye has made a bold claim that the 2025/26 Betway Premiership title race is over for Orlando Pirates following their draw away at Richards Bay on Friday.
The Buccaneers had to come back twice to salvage a point at Umhlathuze Stadium in a game where they had better possession and created the most goal scoring opportunities.
They came into the encounter trailing log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns by two points and now narrowed the gap to just a point in 24 games however the Brazilians now have a game in hand.
Khanye said Friday’s result has made things more difficult for Pirates with the side already in a tough position after being held by Siwelele a few weeks ago.
The former Kaizer Chiefs winger added that he doesn’t see the defending champions losing steam and dropping points upon their return from CAF Champions league duty.
“Even the two-point gap was difficult but you could give them a chance,” said Khanye on iDiski TV.
“But truly speaking when you talk about Sundowns you are talking about eight-time champions, players that are going to the semi-final of the Champions League, and they do that every year. Seasoned players who hardly play and they’ve got a lot of young players who are not even being given a chance, I don’t think Pirates will come back.
“Today [Friday], sealed it and for me the league was already gone with that two-point gap especially after that Siwelele game and the fact they lost to Sundowns. They shouldn’t have allowed themselves to lose that Sundowns game. They should have at least played to a draw. I mean it’s a marathon and you are competing with people who can stay on top of the table especially in the second round, they are peaking at the right time.
“Now, they are busy in the Champions League, where do you think their level is at psychologically? And they are going to be motivated starting the semi-final away in Tunisia first. There is no game in the Betway Premiership that they will slip and lose.
“Yes, they could win some of them ugly like against a Polokwane City who can be difficult but Sundowns know how to win. They can bring on Peter Shalulile who’ll score one goal and they win. So, it’s done I’m sorry my brother.”
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