Orlando Pirates secured the South African Premiership title on Saturday, overcoming Orbit College 2-0 to clinch their first league championship since 2012. The victory effectively ended Mamelodi Sundowns’ eight-season reign atop the domestic league, marking a historic return to prominence for the Soweto-based club.
The deciding match at Mbombela Stadium, witnessed by a capacity crowd of 45,000, was defined by two critical defensive lapses from the opposition. Orbit College goalkeeper Sabelo Nkomo inadvertently punched a corner into his own net during first-half injury time. Shortly after the break, in the 49th minute, defender Ndumiso Ngiba attempted to clear a threat but instead lobbed the ball over his own goalkeeper, sealing the result for the Buccaneers.
With this win, Orlando Pirates finished the campaign one point ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns, completing a domestic treble in their first season under Moroccan head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. The victory also saw the relegation of Orbit College, who finished level on 24 points with Magesi but were relegated due to an inferior goal difference.
Reflecting on the achievement, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou emphasised the significance of the result for the club's loyal following. "I am a happy coach having brought joy to millions of Pirates supporters. They had to wait 14 years for this so it is special," Ouaddou told reporters following the trophy presentation.
Addressing the challenges of managing a youthful side, Ouaddou noted that while the team possesses high energy levels, the pressure of the league title race provided a steep learning curve. "My boys were so desperate to score an early goal that they rushed things and were stressed at times in the opening half," he added.
The championship victory marks a remarkable turnaround for the club. Pirates began their league campaign with two consecutive losses against Sekhukhune United and Marumo Gallants. However, the team displayed significant resilience, subsequently winning 21 matches and drawing six, with their only other defeat occurring against runners-up Mamelodi Sundowns in February.
While the trophy ceremony took place in Mbombela, Mamelodi Sundowns were notably absent from domestic proceedings due to their ongoing international obligations. The former champions were in Morocco preparing for the second leg of the CAF Champions League final, having completed their league schedule two weeks prior.