Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi sees Orlando Pirates as title rivals but has questioned their consistency against smaller teams this season.
Speaking at the Betway Premiership launch in Sandton, Mngqithi expressed confidence in Sundowns’ chances of securing their eighth consecutive league title.
“Orlando Pirates have the depth and quality to challenge us, but they tend to lose against smaller teams,” Mngqithi said.
“The league is won by beating the smaller teams. Even if they beat us, if we can secure wins against those sides, we’ll win the title.”
Sundowns are aiming to continue their dominance in the league under Betway, the new sponsor that replaced DStv. Mngqithi is optimistic, pointing to Sundowns’ resources as a key factor in their potential success.
“We have the team and the ammunition to win this first Betway title,” Mngqithi added.
“The DStv Premiership started and ended with us. Why not Betway as well?”
Despite recent disappointment after losing 2-0 on aggregate to Stellenbosch in the MTN8 semifinals, Mngqithi remained calm.
“The MTN8 has always been a challenge for us, even when we won the Champions League in 2016,” he said.
Sundowns will next face Mbabane Swallows in the CAF Champions League on September 14 at Lucas Moripe Stadium.