Orlando Pirates are facing mounting pressure as their hopes of competing for the Betway Premiership title took another hit following a disheartening 2-0 defeat to Marumo Gallants at the Free State Stadium on March 1, 2025. The loss marked their fourth defeat of the season, casting doubt on their ability to challenge the top teams effectively.
The situation was compounded when former Pirates striker Gabadihno Mhango scored the opening goal for Gallants, seizing on defensive lapses by the Pirates just 15 minutes after kickoff. Defensive errors continued to plague the Pirates throughout the match, culminating with Thalente Mbatha’s own goal, which occurred 15 minutes from time. The own goal dashed any residual hopes of salvaging points for Jose Riveiro’s side.
Earlier this season, the Pirates had shown promise with a significant 3-1 victory against Stellenbosch FC, where Siphamandla Msezane led the charge, scoring the first goal and raising his tally to 13 for the season. This strong performance, paired with subsequent goals from Neo Mokoena and Puleng Bapela, seemed inspiring for the team, giving them brief optimism. At Isak Steyl Stadium, the Pirates appeared composed and methodical during the encounter.
Despite their impressive win against Stellenbosch, the stark reality emerged during the most recent match against Gallants. Pirates were unable to maintain pressure and control throughout the match. Their struggles only intensified with the dismissal of head coach Jose Riveiro, who watched the match from the stands due to suspension. His absence was glaring as the players struggled to create openings against Gallants, who were fighting to avoid relegation.
With four losses this season already—including defeats to Cape Town City and Mamelodi Sundowns—the Pirates remain 18 points adrift of Sundowns, who are setting the pace at the top of the league. Currently, they find themselves with four games still to play, leaving their fate uncertain with the odds firmly stacked against them.
This season's ups and downs highlights the volatile nature of football. After the comfortable win against Stellenbosch, the Pirates seemed poised to mount a serious challenge. Yet, the back-to-back defeats now signal trouble. It prompts fans and analysts alike to question what the future holds for the team. With their next match against Chippa United looming, there is little room left for error.
Make no mistake, the pressure is mounting for the Pirates. They know they must regroup quickly. The upcoming fixtures will be pivotal. Every point will be invaluable not only for pride but also for the outside chance of staying competitive with Sundowns. The defeat to Gallants puts their future aspirations on shaky ground, raising the stakes significantly for every passing match.
The Gallants’ victory also showcased their resurgence under their new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who has reinvigorated the squad since taking over. His players demonstrated resilience and tactical superiority throughout the match, marking their fifth victory and giving them breathing room as they seek to escape relegation.
Meanwhile, Sundowns continue to march on imperiously, earning a goalless draw against Richards Bay just days before beating their Soweto rivals Kaizer Chiefs. The Brazilian side seems unstoppable, scoring 16 goals across four out of their five last league matches. Their consistency and clinical performances are becoming increasingly apparent, with no signs of letting up.
For Orlando Pirates, the win against Stellenbosch will dimly linger as they reflect on missed opportunities. The pressure to perform rises exponentially as they prepare for upcoming fixtures, including their subsequent trip to Polokwane for the Nedbank Cup match against SuperSport United.
With dwindling chances to contend for the title, the Pirates need to recapture their form and navigate the final stretch of the season intelligently. Failure to do so could see them slip even farther behind the league leaders, darkening the horizon for one of South Africa’s most storied clubs.