It’s been four years since Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance was threatened – this season might just bring the drama.
Like Manchester City and Bayern Munich, only a few teams in world soccer have enjoyed domestic success like the Brazilians.
Not only have they won seven Betway Premierships in a row – and nine in the last 11 years – but since the 2019/20 campaign, when Kaizer Chiefs narrowly lost by two points, Sundowns have cleared the next best by at least 16 points.
Mamelodi Sundowns brought back to Earth
Led by coach Rulani Mokwena, they’ve been in a league of their own for years; victory seemed inevitable (until now).
This optimism amongst rivals grew when Sundowns were humbled by Stellenbosch FC in the MTN8 semi-final over a month ago, losing both legs 1-0.
This caused many to ponder, “Could it be the year they fall from grace?”
The Buccaneers and Amakhosi certainly hope so.
Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates back to their best?
After three league games, both outfits are firing on all cylinders, rolling back the years when the trophy bounced between the Soweto stadiums.
Despite a 2-1 loss to Mamelodi Sundowns’ on 28 September, Chiefs seemed threatening from the get-go with a ninth-minute goal thanks to Ranga Chivaviro’s daring run through the defence.
At times, Shabalala ran rampant while Castillo ensured balance in the midfield, showcasing a team harmony that had not clicked for years.
Although they fell short against the reigning champions, their performance was different from that of a year ago; they weren’t there to participate; they were there to win.
Ultimately, a controversial Iqraam Rayners goal secured the win for Sundowns, but the Chiefs fandom left with pride.
Having finished 10th last season, many wondered what Amakhosi side we would see this year.
Newly hired Nasreddine Nabi has answered the critics with his dynamic tactics and progressive play, causing many to speculate whether this could be their year.
A day later, at Richards Bay FC’s King Zwelithini Stadium, Kabelo Dlamini came off the bench to dispatch an inch-perfect free-kick, securing three wins in three games and propelling the Buccaneers to second on the log, tied with Sundowns’ on points.
They, too, boast world-class talent, from Monnapule Saleng to Evidence Makgopa. Are they able to give the Brazilians a run for their money?
Only time will tell.
As the league takes a three-week hiatus due to the international break, there’s plenty to be excited about its return, which is setting up to be the tightest championship in years.
Will Mamelodi Sundowns fall short?
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