Masandawana Face Final Stretch Pressure With Pirates in Pursuit and CAF Glory Within Reach

Mamelodi Sundowns may be celebrating their remarkable CAF Champions League run, but there’s no time to rest as the Tshwane giants turn their attention back to the DStv Premiership title race — with fierce rivals Orlando Pirates breathing down their necks.

Following a stunning win over defending champions Al Ahly in Cairo, Sundowns secured a spot in their first CAF final since 2016. However, the celebrations have been brief, with Miguel Cardoso’s men now needing to defend their domestic crown under immense pressure from a surging Pirates side.

With only a handful of games left and the Buccaneers holding games in hand, Masandawana are walking a tightrope. Every fixture is now a final in their pursuit of an unprecedented eighth consecutive league title.

Denis Onyango: “Every Game is a Final”

Veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango echoed the high-stakes mentality within the camp as Sundowns prepare to host relegation-threatened Richards Bay.

“It’s not an easy task for the boys,” Onyango admitted. “We take every game as it comes, and right now the focus is on the PSL. We must lift the trophy. The Champions League will have its time, but we can’t take our eyes off the league.”

Richards Bay sit 13th and are fighting for survival, but Onyango insists Sundowns cannot afford to drop points, especially at home.

“They are a very hard-running team, and they are desperate. But we have the quality and the experience to get the job done. We must stay focused and ensure we get the results,” he said.

Supporters Urged to Rally Behind the Team

With four home fixtures remaining, Onyango also called on the Sundowns faithful to play their part.

“This is the most important stretch of the season. We’ve come a long way, and we need our supporters to come in numbers and push the team across the finish line. Their support gives us strength.”

Cardoso Balancing a Delicate Mission

For head coach Miguel Cardoso, managing the squad during this decisive period is a balancing act between chasing history on the continent and holding firm in the domestic title race.

Cardoso has made it clear: locking in the league title early is essential if Sundowns are to mount a successful final push for CAF glory. With just 180 minutes separating them from continental triumph, any slip-up in the league could derail their chances of silverware on both fronts.

Upcoming Fixtures: High Stakes, High Pressure

Next up is the visit of Richards Bay, followed by a tricky away trip to Cape Town City — another side fighting to avoid relegation. These matches won’t just test Sundowns’ quality, but their mental toughness and endurance after a demanding season.

Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates are lurking, keeping the pressure on. Should Sundowns falter, the title race could go down to the wire.

The Road to Glory or Heartbreak

As the season nears its conclusion, Mamelodi Sundowns find themselves in a rare position — favourites for a double, yet chased by hungry rivals and burdened by expectations. The next few games will define their season.

For Masandawana, history is within reach — but only if they can hold their nerve.