Mamelodi Sundowns dominated Orlando Pirates with a 4-1 win in the South African Premiership. The result exposed the gap between Sundowns and the rest of the league.
Pirates (6.44) have improved significantly over the past few seasons. Moreover, they have built a competitive squad and secured major signings. However, even at their best, they remain far behind Mamelodi Sundowns.
Mamelodi Sundowns’ Dominance Continues
The Sundowns (1.12), backed by the wealth of the Motsepe family, have won seven Premiership titles in a row. They are now on the course for an eighth consecutive championship. Right now, they sit nine points ahead of Pirates, gaining an upper hand.
No team has been able to match Sundowns’ performances yet. Although other local teams try, they struggle to compete when Sundowns play at their best. This is because they have more players and better tactics. Additionally, their greater resources give them an edge over their opponents. There has arguably never been a better team in PSL history than Sundowns’ current squad, but the league needs an element of unpredictability to remain exciting for fans and soccer betting enthusiasts.
Pirates’ Progress Not Enough
Pirates have improved significantly under Jose Riveiro’s leadership. Through quality signings and talent from their Diski Challenge team. Their play has shown flashes of brilliance. However, their heavy defeat against Sundowns proved that they still have far to go.
Even when Pirates strengthen, Sundowns move further ahead. Sundowns’ squad depth ensures they always have fresh, top-quality players. Pirates, like other teams, struggle to keep up over a full season.
Lack of Real Competition
Sundowns benefit from a league lacking real challengers. SuperSport United (2474.17) and Stellenbosch FC (493.63) have had good spells but cannot maintain consistency. Kaizer Chiefs (248.32) remain in transition and are not close to competing.
The lack of competition allows Sundowns to dominate. When they play their best soccer, they are untouchable. This makes the league predictable and reduces excitement.
What Can Change?
For the league to be more competitive, other teams must improve. Pirates and Chiefs need stronger squads to compete across a full season. On the other hand, smaller clubs need better financial backing to challenge the Sundowns.
The Premier Soccer League (PSL) could introduce measures to create a more level playing field. However, the gap between Sundowns and the rest of the league has widened since COVID-19. Perhaps clubs may need increased grants to compete with the Sundowns’ spending.
Sundowns’ 4-1 win over Pirates confirmed their dominance. Even with the Pirates’ improvement, the gap remains too big. The PSL needs stronger competition to remain exciting.
