For eight consecutive campaigns, Mamelodi Sundowns have cruised to the league crown. Orlando Pirates, despite three straight runners-up finishes, trailed by 24 points in 2022/23, 23 points the next season, and 12 points last year.
This term though the two teams are neck and neck in the title race, tied with 44 points each from 19 games, with Pirates ahead by a one-goal margin.
And just as Ouaddou’s team were beating Polokwane City 2-1 on Wednesday night, Sundowns overcame Golden Arrows by the same scroeline – while having a legitimate goal ruled out for offsides.
Next up for the Buccaneers is a home clash with Richards Bay on Wednesday, as the Brazilians take on Orbit College at Olympia Park on Tuesday.
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But while Pirates are fully focused on their league campaign, Sundowns also have their CAF Champions League campaign to focus on and play their quarter-final clash with Stade Malien next Friday.
“There is a lot of interest, and that’s nice for football and fans,” Ouaddou said on IOL. “When the team is leading with 15 points in the middle of the season, what interest do we have?
“But I think at the moment, it’s what the fans want. It is what football can offer, and the two teams are fighting. And that’s good for South African football.”