Orlando Pirates have made a strong statement in the early stages of the 2024/25 Betway Premiership. With the club looking to end their league title drought, former player Thabo Rakhale shared his insights on their chances of success.
Under the guidance of coach Jose Riveiro, Pirates enjoyed a remarkable start to the 2024/25 Betway Premiership campaign. The Sea Robbers remain unbeaten after seven matches, accumulating 21 valuable points.
The Soweto giants impressive attacking prowess has yielded 13 goals, second only to Mamelodi Sundowns’ 15. Defensively, they have been equally solid, conceding a league-low two goals.
Building on their domestic dominance, Pirates etched their name in history by securing a historic third consecutive MTN8 title. This achievement, coupled with back-to-back Nedbank Cup triumphs, has ignited a wave of excitement among the passionate Pirates faithful, who have flocked to stadiums in record numbers to support their team.
Despite their recent cup successes, Pirates have a 12-year league title drought. Their last league championship came in the 2011/12 season under the tutelage of legendary coach Ruud Krol. As the current campaign unfolds, the question on everyone’s lips is whether Pirates can finally break this long-standing curse and reclaim their rightful place at the summit of SA football.
THABO RAKHALE BACKS PIRATES TO WIN THE LEAGUE TITLE
The 34-year-old believes his former side have got all it takes to dethrone Sundowns and win the league this season. Sundowns have been a dominant side, winning the league seven times in a row.
“I’m happy to see the team doing well, playing exciting football, and it’s even enjoyable to watch them,” Rakhale told FARPost.
“I think consistency will play a huge role in terms of Pirates winning the league because so far, they are playing so well. A lot of teams will be targeting to spoil the ship they are sailing on. The chances of them winning the league are there, and though it will be difficult, I would personally love to see them lifting that trophy.
“I mean, with all the trophies they have won lately, it’s only fair for them to get the major one [league title]. I hope all goes well for them to clinch that.”
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