'Sea Robbers will one up Downs'

FORMER Orlando Pirates legend Edward Motale has backed his former side to rise to the occasion when they lock horns with reigning league champions Mamelodi Sundowns in a high-stakes Betway Premiership blockbuster at FNB Stadium tonight (7.30pm kickoff).

- OBAKENG MELETSE

Pirates head into the encounter brimming with renewed belief as they chase their first league crown in nearly 14 years.

Standing in their way is a Sundowns side determined to extend a remarkable era of dominance, with the Brazilians pursuing what would be a ninth successive league title.

The fixture not only pits the top two teams against each other but could also influence the psychological direction of the title race.

Pirates have laid a solid foundation in the early stages of the campaign. After seasons where promise faded at crucial moments, they have displayed improved consistency and maturity.

Their efforts have earned them a six-point lead at the summit – an advantage that brings both comfort and responsibility. Victory today would stretch that gap to nine points and heap significant pressure on the defending champions.