Mamelodi Sundowns poised for another dominant season

Mamelodi Sundowns will enter the 2025/26 Premiership season with their sights set on an unprecedented ninth consecutive league title.

Their recent showing at the FIFA Club World Cup further highlighted the gulf in class between them and the rest of the domestic competition.

While most teams have spent the off-season preparing for the upcoming campaign, the Brazilians had their schedule extended by international commitments.

Their participation in the expanded Club World Cup saw them go toe-to-toe with some of the world’s elite, leaving them with limited time to rest before turning their focus back to local matters.

That short turnaround could be a blessing in disguise. For a squad used to juggling multiple competitions throughout the season, a brief break may be just enough to recharge without losing sharpness. It might even give them a competitive edge heading into the opening weeks.

There hasn't been a flurry of incoming transfer activity at Chloorkop, but with the depth and quality already in the squad, it was hardly necessary.

The core group that powered them to glory last season remains intact. That continuity offers stability at a time when many of their rivals are rebuilding and integrating new faces.

Unlike teams using pre-season to figure out their best combinations, the champions already have a group that knows how to win together. Familiarity with the system, strong on-field relationships, and a shared understanding of expectations give them a head start.

Orlando Pirates, seen as the most realistic challengers, will hope their new signings and growing ambition can bridge the gap. But a 13-point deficit over 28 games last season paints a clear picture of the distance that still exists. With changes in personnel and a coach still shaping his ideal lineup, it could take time for everything to click in Soweto.

They will still be the side expected to run Sundowns closest this season. While the CAF Champions League may take priority after narrowly missing out against Pyramids FC 3–2 on aggregate, the trend in recent seasons has been for the Pretoria giants to break new ground and collect more silverware and records—both locally and on the continent.

If there’s one lesson the global stage offered, it’s that while they remain miles ahead locally, the gap between them and the world’s elite may need a bit of closing up even though they nearly made it to the last 16 of the global tournament.

That’s the new benchmark. To close it, they must not only dominate South Africa but also assert themselves as the undisputed powerhouse on the continent. Their next chapter isn’t just about defending titles—it’s about raising the ceiling and setting new standards for African excellence.

Their ability to maintain high standards week in and week out has become the hallmark of their dominance. Even with a slightly delayed start to the domestic campaign, there's little to suggest they’ll lose their grip.

As things stand, more of the same should be the expectation. It will take something truly extraordinary to dethrone the reigning champions. While others continue to strengthen and search for consistency, the shoe shine and piano remain the gold standard in South African football.