Mamelodi Sundowns Thrash Orlando Pirates 4-1, Set New PSL Mid-Season Record
At Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Mamelodi Sundowns defeated Orlando Pirates 4-1 on Saturday in a Premier Soccer League (PSL) match thanks to a strong effort. They now lead the standings by nine points after the win, which also creates a new league record.
Grant Kekana opened the scoring in the 13th minute, followed by a brace from Lucas Ribeiro Costa (27’, 59’). Teboho Mokoena sealed the win in the 78th minute. Pirates’ only goal came from Deon Hotto in the 57th minute.
With this win, Sundowns have now accumulated 42 points in 15 matches, becoming the first team in PSL history to reach this total at mid-season under the current 30-match format, according to Opta. For the first time since December 2021, when Sundowns defeated them by the same tally, the Orlando Pirates gave up four goals in a league game.
Fans responded in a variety of ways on social media. While some criticized Pirates' effort, others lauded Sundowns'. Many emphasized the Brazilians' superiority, and one fan joked that they need to be kicked out of the PSL and forced to compete in the Club World Cup.
With this decisive victory, Sundowns solidifies their position as South Africa's best team and advances closer to winning another league championship.
Khaled Hegazy
Dailysports's expert