Orlando Pirates’ title charge faces Durban City roadblock at Moses Mabhida

As the curtain begins to fall on the Betway Premiership 2025 season, all eyes will be on the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban this Saturday, where Orlando Pirates will clash with the impressive Durban City.

With current league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns enjoying a break from Premiership action this weekend, the opportunity is ripe for Pirates to seize top spot in the standings.

Pirates find themselves neck and neck with Sundowns, with both clubs locked on 25 points. Sundowns, however, hold a slight two-goal edge on goal difference. A decisive win for Pirates could catapult them to the summit of the league, further solidifying the impressive run that has seen them unbeaten since a loss to Marumo Gallants in August.

Pirates have enjoyed a remarkable campaign, amassing eight wins, one draw, and just two losses from their 11 league fixtures. Their coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou — buoyed by the recent return of key players Olisah Ndah and Makhehlene Makhaula from injury — expressed his satisfaction with the depth developing in his squad as they approach their final league match of the year.

“I am a happy coach, so when you have all these players back and growing the numbers in your team, it comes in handy,” Ouaddou said. “I know it’s difficult to make choices, but I prefer to have a pleasant dilemma when selecting players.”

On the opposite side, Durban City — coached by the experienced Gavin Hunt — are enjoying a commendable inaugural season in the Premier Soccer League. Currently sitting seventh with 19 points from 13 matches, City will be determined to disrupt Pirates’ ambitions and strengthen their own grip on a top-eight place. Hunt’s side is unbeaten in their last two outings and eager to end the year on a high.

City chairman Farook Kadodia emphasised the importance of Saturday’s encounter. “It is about growing our support base and building the club in our new home. This match is our opportunity to demonstrate the quality and fighting spirit we are building here,” he said, anticipating a thrilling contest that will showcase the rising talent within the squad.

One player to watch for Pirates will undoubtedly be their vibrant winger Oswin Appolis. A frontrunner for the PSL Footballer of the Season award, Appolis has made a significant impact since joining from Polokwane City, scoring four goals and consistently influencing matches with his pace and agility. Durban City will need to be particularly alert to his threat.

Looking ahead, Hunt will hope for a similar influence from his own rising star, Letsie Koapeng. The 33-year-old centre-forward, who joined from Orbit College, has made a promising start with three goals in 11 games. Facing his former club adds another layer of intrigue to the fixture.

With high stakes and mounting pressure, Saturday’s clash at Moses Mabhida promises to be a gripping encounter — one that could significantly reshape the trajectories of both clubs as they enter the New Year.