Motale tips Pirates to finally end Brazilians’ dominance

ORLANDO Pirates legend Edward Motale is confident that the Soweto giants have done enough in the current transfer window to not only mount a serious challenge against Mamelodi Sundowns, but to bring an end to the Pretoria-based side's dominant reign at the top of South African football.

- OBAKENG MELETSE

The Buccaneers have not lifted the league title since the 2011/12 season, but after pushing closer to the top during the previous campaign than they have in recent years - even though they ultimately finished 13 points behind champions Sundowns there's a renewed sense of optimism in Orlando.

A large part of that comes from their activity in the market, with several new signings boosting hopes that they can go all the way this time. Pirates will also head into the new campaign under new leadership following the departure of head coach Jose Riveiro to Egyptian giants Al Ahly at the end of last season.

Moroccan tactician Abdeslam Ouaddou has already taken over, and he has inherited a team that reached the semifinals of the CAF Champions League and also played in the Nedbank Cup final.