Orlando Pirates are over the moon after Mamelodi Sundowns lost their last match of the season, finishing with 68 points.
A win for the Buccaneers against Durban City at the Orlando Stadium will see them crowned the 2025/26 Betway Premiership champions.
Betway Premiership Title Within Reach
TS Galaxy’s thrilling performance also ensured they will be playing in the top flight next season, having secured their survival.
The match against Mamelodi Sundowns was action-packed from the start, with both teams attacking at full pace.
As early as the second minute, TS Galaxy captain Mlungisi Mbunjana nearly gave Sundowns the lead after losing possession in a dangerous area. However,Arthur Sales’ shot was saved by goalkeeper Ira Tape.
TS Galaxy Takes The Lead
Galaxy quickly responded and were awarded a penalty when Seluleko Mahlambi was brought down by Zuko Mdutyelwa inside the penalty area. Victor Letsoalo calmly scored the penalty, giving Galaxy a 1-0 lead in the seventh minute.
Galaxy continued to trouble Sundowns with direct attacking football, doubling their advantage in the 18th minute. Mahlambi led a rapid counter-attack before releasing Sedwyn George, who scored with a low right-footed strike.
Mamelodi Sundowns Fight Back
Despite looking shaken early on, Mamelodi Sundowns found their rhythm and pulled one back eight minutes before halftime. Nuno Santos delivered a cross into the area, and Brayan Leon scored with a header in the 37th minute.
Just before the break, Sundowns were awarded a penalty when Mpho Mvelase handled the ball inside the area. Leon stepped up and buried the equaliser, completing Sundowns’ comeback before halftime.
Galaxy Refuse To Give Up
The second half was just as intense as the first, with Galaxy striking again through a quick attacking move. Siphesihle Maduna burst forward before squaring the ball to Mvela, who tapped into an open net to restore Galaxy’s lead at 3-2.
The match turned into a chaotic end-to-end contest, with both teams creating chances freely. The goalkeepers, Williams and Tape, were repeatedly called into action as neither side showed any intention of sitting back.
Sundowns pushed hard for another equaliser late in the match, but Galaxy defended bravely to hold onto a massive victory. The result leaves TS Galaxy on 31 points, enough to secure their Betway Premiership status for next season.
A win for Pirates against Durban City in Soweto on Saturday will crown the Sea Robbers champions for the first time since the 2011/12 season.
