Sundowns and Pirates draw in ‘state of the nation’ battle

MAMELODI Sundowns are like a cat. They are showing that nothing will stop them from achieving their ninth life (the title), as the people who were supposed to protect the state, the league, are allegedly in their back pocket.

- MIHLALI BALEKA

Sundowns drew 1-1 with Orlando Pirates in the Betway Premiership at a sold-out Loftus Versfeld yesterday afternoon. This was a testament to their intentions to win a record-extending ninth title in a row against a team that’s expected to be their challenger.

The Brazilians will take this draw in great stride as they continue to withstand the pressure of ensuring that they maintain their local and continental dominance. They are the league champions and recently qualified for a record 10th CAF Champions League group stage campaign.

Pirates, meanwhile, have to go back to the drawing board and ensure that they get their campaign back on track. They can’t afford to falter in the league, as that’s the way they can rescue their season after failing to qualify for the group stage (or similar, if this is accurate).