Title race intensifies

WHILE the Africa Cup of Nations gathers momentum with Africa's finest going head-to-head for continental supremacy, the start of the new year has also brought the Betway Premiership tantalisingly close to resumption, especially with Bafana Bafana getting knocked out in the Last 16 on Sunday.

- OBAKENG MELETSE

Business has not been as usual this season. This campaign carries a distinct energy, with a simmering battle emerging between the country’s two standout giants, Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates.

The pair are set for more than a mere stare-down; they could once again clash head-on in a fight for the league title. Sundowns remain the undisputed champions, chasing a record-extending ninth consecutive league crown, while Pirates are determined to end a 13-year title drought, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this season's heavyweight showdown.

The Betway Premiership will resume in a couple of weeks, and the headline fixture will be the high-stakes clash between the Buccaneers and the Brazilians at Orlando Stadium later this month. Fans will be hoping for more than the 1-1 draw that left them wanting more in their previous encounter.