The Betway Premiership title race has been set ablaze, but for Orlando Pirates, the aftermath is filled with “what ifs” and scathing criticism.
After a 2-1 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns at the FNB Stadium, the gap at the top has shrunk to just 3 points, with the Brazilians still holding a game in hand.
While the fans are mourning the result, African football expert Mogale Sathekge isn’t offering any sympathy. In a scathing post-match analysis with Soccer Betting News, Sathekge took aim at the Buccaneers’ tactical choices and one player in particular.
The headline of the night wasn’t just the score line, but the performance of 23-year-old striker Yanele Mbuthuma. Despite coming into the match with two goals in his last three outings, Sathekge believes the young forward was out of his depth against a seasoned veteran like Ronwen Williams.
“Mbuthuma thinks like a toddler,” Sathekge remarked. “A player that gets ninety chances and does not even convert any. Why would you go at Sundowns with the likes of Mbuthuma, kids. People who don’t understand that you need to win a game. This game is important. It’s Sundowns for heaven sakes.
During the sit down discussion, host Desh Parthab pointed out Mbuthuma’s missed opportunity that struck the woodwork. Nevertheless, it fell on deaf ears as Sathekge called it unprofessional. “That was not even supposed to be an attempt; it was supposed to be a goal. It was 1-v-1”, he responded.
Sundowns have reasserted their dominance, proving that their vice-grip on South African football is far from loosening. Pirates may still be top of the log for now, but with Masandawana breathing down their necks and a game in hand, the Buccaneers’ margin for error has been erased without a trace.
Both teams now shift their attention to this weekend’s Nedbank Cup action, but the title race has undoubtedly heated up. Mamelodi Sundowns travel to face TS Galaxy, before Orlando Pirates host Casric Stars.
The matches are scheduled for tomorrow, 21 February 2026, kicking off at 15h00 and 18h00 respectively.
View the episode below: