Orlando Pirates Make Strong Start, But Can They Keep It Up?
Orlando Pirates are making a strong case for the title, topping the points-per-game table despite Mamelodi Sundowns' current lead in the standings.
Orlando Pirates have been chasing Mamelodi Sundowns' tail for years, finishing runners-up for the third time in a row...
Orlando Pirates are topping the points per game table in the Betway Premiership, despite Mamelodi Sundowns currently sitting at the top of the league standings. If the teams maintain their current pace, Pirates would be crowned champions in the 2025/26 season, potentially ending Sundowns' eight-year winning streak.
The stage is set for a thrilling showdown at Loftus Stadium, where Sundowns host Pirates. A win for Pirates would further close the gap, while a Sundowns victory would extend their lead. A draw would maintain the status quo, but the stakes are high in this crucial encounter.
Mamelodi Sundowns currently top the league table with 31 points from 10 games, three points ahead of Orlando Pirates, who have two games in hand. While points per game can be a useful metric, it's not the only factor - actual points on the board are what matter most.
That being said, the numbers do show that Pirates have had a stronger start to the season, despite playing two fewer games than Sundowns. In fact, if points per game were the deciding factor, Sundowns would drop to third place, behind Sekhukhune United, who have collected points at a higher rate than the Pretoria side.
Orlando Pirates have been chasing Mamelodi Sundowns' tail for years, finishing runners-up for the third time in a row. With Sundowns' current wobbles and Pirates' strong start, they might finally break through and claim the top spot.
Orlando Pirates have turned their season around, racking up six consecutive league wins after a rough start. This impressive streak has earned them an average of 2.25 points per game from their first eight matches. If they maintain this pace, they'd finish the season with approximately 68 points.
Meanwhile, Sekhukhune United's recent performance has dipped, with just one point from their last two games. Despite this, they've still managed an impressive 2.22 points per game this season under coach Eric Tinkler's leadership.
Mamelodi Sundowns, on the other hand, have averaged 2.10 points per game, which would put them at around 63 points if they keep up this rate. This would be a significant drop compared to their previous seasons and their lowest tally since the 2019/20 campaign when they scored 59 points.
𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢-𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐝
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) October 29, 2025
🏆 #CarlingKnockout
🆚 @RichardsBayFC_ (A)
🗓 TBC
⏰ TBC
⚫⚪🔴⭐#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/C1BJl9HYYo
Kaizer Chiefs' current form would translate to a season's total of around 53 points, their highest tally since the 2019/2020 season when they narrowly missed out on the title. This would be a welcome respite for the fans, who have endured some tough times in recent years.
AmaZulu, under the guidance of coach Arthur Zwane, have been quietly impressive, averaging 1.67 points per game. If they maintain this form, they would secure a respectable fifth-place finish. Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs' recent performance suggests they're on track to end their season with a strong points tally.
Four clubs are currently averaging less than a point per game. Stellenbosch FC, with an average of 0.90 points, seems to be turning things around and might soon climb out of this group. The other teams struggling to accumulate points include Magesi FC, also averaging 0.90 points, Siwelele with 0.80 points, and Chippa United with a low 0.60 points per game.
Bafana Ba Style have delivered some unforgettable strikes against The Buccaneers. 🔥
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) October 30, 2025
Masandawana, drop your score predictions for this weekend’s clash in the comments! ⬇️#Sundowns #BetwayPrem #AreyengMasandawana pic.twitter.com/xw7aAz0U2E
Looking at the table, Stellenbosch FC is currently in 13th position with 9 points from 10 matches, having won 2, drawn 3, and lost 5 games. Magesi FC is just above them with 9 points as well but slightly better goal difference. Siwelele is in 15th place with 8 points from 10 matches, while Chippa United is in 10th place but seems to be struggling with 6 points from 10 matches.
Pirates will be keen to capitalize on Sundowns' weaknesses, especially with key players Teboho Mokoena and Miguel Reisinho out due to suspension. Can this be their year to go from bridesmaid to bride?

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