Teams no longer fear Mamelodi Sundowns — Baloyi tips Orlando Pirates for success

Former Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Brian Baloyi believes Orlando Pirates have emerged as a genuine threat this season and feels Mamelodi Sundowns no longer carry the same aura of dominance they once did.

The 2011/12 campaign remains one of the most successful in Pirates’ history. Under the captaincy of Lucky Lekgwathi, the Buccaneers secured a second consecutive league title, completing a remarkable second straight treble.

That achievement was made even more significant by instability behind the scenes. Following Ruud Krol’s departure, Julio Leal could not see out a full season, before Augusto Palacios stepped in and guided the Sea Robbers to one of the most memorable periods in the club’s history.

Over a decade later, that season still stands out, particularly as Pirates have yet to lift another league title since.

Now, following another major change in the technical team with the appointment of Abdeslam Ouaddou to replace Spanish coach Jose Riveiro, there is renewed belief that this could finally be the moment the club has been waiting for over the past 13 years.

During the 13 years, Pirates have largely watched from a close distance as the balance of power shifted decisively towards Sundowns, who have dominated the league with little resistance. The prospect of Ouaddou delivering the unthinkable in his first season — ending Sundowns’ grip on the title — would represent a seismic moment in the domestic game.

As the league resumes throughout this week, attention will once again focus on the fierce battle at the top of the table. Pirates’ strong start under Ouaddou has sent a clear message to their rivals, and their presence in the title race arguably feels more convincing than it has in many years.

Baloyi is among those unconvinced by Sundowns’ current form and impressed by what Pirates have shown so far. Speaking at a Hollywoodbets event, where former Liverpool striker Michael Owen was unveiled as a brand ambassador, the former shot stopper suggested the gap between the two giants has narrowed significantly based on the early signs this season.

“Pirates have looked the part,” Baloyi said.

“Sundowns are not as scary as they used to be. Teams are no longer as afraid of them.”

While much of the spotlight has been on Sundowns, the influence of Sekhukhune United and Kaizer Chiefs cannot be overlooked. Even if they do not go all the way in the title race, both sides could still play a decisive role in shaping where the championship ultimately ends up.

Pirates resume their league campaign this Saturday with a demanding away fixture against Sekhukhune United at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium. Having already lost to Babina Noko (1-0) earlier this season at Orlando Stadium, the clash could prove pivotal, carrying significant implications for the title race.

Despite acknowledging the competitiveness of the league, Baloyi believes the championship battle will ultimately boil down to two teams, Pirates and Sundowns.

“This season has been very open,” he added. “Sekhukhune started well but, because of squad depth, they’ve begun to falter, although they are still in with a chance.

"Pirates and Sundowns have been signing players left and right. It could have been a four-horse race, but in the end it will be a two-horse race.”