Tactical Shift: How Orlando Pirates Overcame Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership

Orlando Pirates claimed a significant 2-1 victory over Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership, ending a long wait for league success against the defending champions. The encounter at the Calabash saw a marked tactical shift from the home side, as they adapted their approach to overcome a dominant Sundowns team.

Pirates had suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat to Sundowns in their previous league meeting in February, a result that forced Jose Riveiro’s side into deep introspection. Furthermore, their failure to secure a league victory against the Tshwane giants since January 2020 had been a point of frustration.

While Riveiro had previously emphasized the importance of matching Sundowns in ball possession to remain competitive, the February loss proved that possession alone was not enough. Despite controlling 61% of possession in that game, Pirates were undone by the ruthless efficiency of their opponents.

For the rematch, Pirates abandoned their possession-based approach, instead focusing on defensive solidity and counter-attacks. The Buccaneers finished the game with just 30% possession but secured a crucial 2-1 victory, proving that dominance on the ball does not always translate into success against Sundowns.

A look at last season’s encounters further reinforces this trend. Pirates lost the first-round clash 1-0 while holding 48% possession. In the return leg, they managed a 1-1 draw with only 31% possession. These statistics highlight that teams defeating Sundowns often do so with limited possession, instead relying on defensive discipline and opportunistic attacking play.

Riveiro’s tactical adjustment was evident in his defensive setup. Deploying three centre-backs and five defenders, he fielded arguably his most cautious lineup against Sundowns. This conservative approach ultimately paid dividends, as Pirates absorbed pressure effectively and capitalized on their chances.

The last time Pirates defeated Sundowns in the league, back in January 2020, they dominated possession with 57%. However, Sundowns had yet to reach the formidable level they have achieved in recent years under successive coaches since Pitso Mosimane’s departure.

This victory not only breaks Pirates’ winless streak against Sundowns in the league but also underscores the importance of adaptability in modern football. Riveiro’s willingness to abandon a possession-based approach in favor of pragmatism was instrumental in securing a crucial three points, reaffirming that results matter more than ball control in high-stakes encounters.