Orlando Pirates are firmly in the Betway Premiership title race with just four matchdays remaining, sitting two points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. The Buccaneers have 59 points from 26 games, while Sundowns lead with 61 points from the same number of fixtures. To claim their first league crown since the 2011/12 season, José Riveiro's side must win all four of their remaining matches and hope Sundowns drop points in at least one fixture.
The equation is straightforward but challenging for Pirates, as Mamelodi Sundowns control their own destiny. If the defending champions win their remaining four games, they will secure a ninth consecutive league title. Kaizer Chiefs could play a decisive role in the outcome, as they face Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday, 6 May. The Soweto derby draw between Pirates and Chiefs last month dented the Buccaneers' hopes, but Richards Bay's subsequent 0-0 draw with Sundowns kept the race alive.
Pirates face a tricky run-in starting with Stellenbosch FC away on 5 May, followed by matches against Magesi, Durban City, and Orbit College. Sundowns host Polokwane City before the crucial clash with Chiefs, then face Siwelele and TS Galaxy. Bucs fans will be forced to support their bitter rivals against Sundowns, knowing a Chiefs win or draw could be the lifeline needed to end a 14-year league title drought.