Orlando Pirates did their part in stirring up the Betway Premiership this season, but in the end, Mamelodi Sundowns were simply too consistent and clinical, sealing the title with a game to spare.
Here, Obakeng Meletse picks out five of Sundowns’ most impressive performances and defining moments from a season that once again showcased their dominance.
Laying the perfect platform – September 17
It was an unusually late start to the season, and with the Brazilians having clinched a seventh consecutive league title in dominant fashion, all eyes were on them to see whether they could maintain that level in the new campaign.
They were handed no easy task in their opener — a derby clash against neighbours SuperSport United. Despite fielding a youthful squad the previous season, SuperSport had finished seventh with 44 points and were expected to pose a stern challenge.
It wasn’t to be, though. Sundowns strolled to a comfortable 2-0 win over Matsatsantsa a Pitori. More than just three points, it was a performance that sent a clear message to the rest of the league: despite the managerial change from Rhulani Mokwena to Manqoba Mngqithi, Sundowns had no intention of relinquishing their dominance.
Shock defeat to Rise and Shine casts doubt – October 27
Phuti Mohafe and his Polokwane City side masterminded an early upset, beating the champions 1-0 courtesy of a late goal from Bulelani Nikani in the 82nd minute.
Having gone through most of the previous season unbeaten, the result tested Sundowns’ ability to respond to adversity. They answered emphatically — embarking on a rampant nine-match winning streak that saw them reclaim and tighten their grip on the top of the table.
Sea Robbers routed – February 8
Billed as a potential title decider, this heavyweight clash certainly delivered on drama — but it was one-way traffic, with Sundowns dominating the contest.
The 4-1 hammering was one of Pirates’ heaviest defeats of the season and arguably derailed their title challenge. From that point forward, they were locked in a futile chase, unable to bridge the gap.
Sundowns’ emphatic victory was a statement — one that reminded José Riveiro and his men that it takes more than chasing points to dethrone champions. True contenders must win the battles within the battles — where small margins define greatness.
Narrow win over the Amakhosi in a hard-fought encounter – March 1
Kaizer Chiefs have been unpredictable all season, and the reverse fixture — a 2-1 win for Sundowns — suggested they would once again have the upper hand.
However, the 1-0 win at the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium was far from straightforward. Chiefs arrived determined and pushed Sundowns to the edge, but ultimately it was a 41st-minute strike by Lucas Ribeiro Costa that proved decisive.
Despite facing some nervy moments, the Brazilians held firm and secured a crucial three points in a tightly contested match.
Brushing aside Stellies – May 11
Many had earmarked the clash with Stellenbosch as a potential stumbling block in Sundowns’ title charge. But instead, the Brazilians eased to a 3-0 victory that brought them within a point of sealing the inaugural Betway Premiership crown.
Though Pirates remained mathematically in the race, Sundowns’ subsequent emphatic victories over Stellies and Chippa United extinguished all remaining hope. The triumphs not only secured an eighth consecutive league title but reaffirmed their status as the undisputed kings of South African football.
