Solid as rock Pirates brace for Sundowns' offensive firepower

Orlando Pirates' steadfast defence is poised for a formidable test on Saturday as they face off against Mamelodi Sundowns in a DStv Diski Challenge clash of titans at Tuks Stadium.

Sundowns enter the encounter brandishing the most formidable attack in the league, having scored an impressive 20 goals in just eight matches.

Conversely, Pirates' defensive line is commendably robust, having preserved five clean sheets across the same number of games, with a mere six goals conceded.

Nevertheless, their defensive mettle will undergo rigorous scrutiny against the likes of Bennet "Big Benz" Mokoena, who has netted six goals this season, and Oarabile Booysen, who boasts four goals.

Pirates are heading to this match, beleaguered after suffering their first defeat of the season at the hands of Polokwane City, losing 2-1 last weekend. This setback saw them drop from the No 1 spot in the league standings, leaving them in second place with 19 points, equivalent to Sundowns, who currently occupy the summit. The two teams are differentiated solely by their goal differential.

Sundowns coach Tiro-John Van Rooyen said players need no motivation for this clash, they know what is at stake.

"The players know the magnitude of this match; they will have to minimise mistakes and grind points," stated Van Rooyen.

"The team is very young; we are still in a learning process, so this would be a good test for us. We have had a few mistakes since the season started, but that is the least of my worries. The game is about making those mistakes and improving from them. So we are looking for an improved performance."

Last season, Sundowns completed a rare double over Pirates, defeating them 1-0 at home and 2-1 away. Undoubtedly, the Buccaneers would be looking to redeem themselves under the tutelage of former SuperSport United coach Roscoe Krieling.

Here's your updated DStv Diski Challenge table@Masandawana moved to the top, @orlandopirates dropped to the second spot. Reigning champions @KaizerChiefs are in position nine, and abafana bophuthu @goldenarrowsfc1 are languishing at the bottom of the log kubi #Asidlali pic.twitter.com/3GCitYznZR

— Asidlali (@Asidlali) October 31, 2025