Despite Mamelodi Sundowns’ conquest, Bafana Bafana's World Cup-bound players had a ball

In a match at the heart of South African football, Mamelodi Sundowns showcased their championship pedigree by navigating a formidable challenge from Orlando Pirates, leaving fans entranced from the opening whistle to the final minutes at Soccer City on Wednesday.

This encounter served as a vivid illustration of Sundowns’ inherent talent and strategic discipline. Their ability to draw on experience while remaining composed under pressure invited contemplation on what it means to be champions.

Despite Sundowns’ offensive creativity and staunch defensive tactics, they faced a relentless assault from the Pirates, who pressed forward to unsettle their rivals. Yet, the reigning champions stood firm, demonstrating remarkable fortitude as they weathered the storm - one of the talking points of the match.

1 World Cup ball

The official Adidas ball for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup made its first notable South African appearance, adding an extra layer of excitement to the thrilling contest at Soccer City.

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos can expect valuable input on the World Cup ball, as many players from both teams will travel to the United States, Canada, and Mexico later this year for the tournament.

2 Downs played like the home team

Typically, the main dressing room at Soccer City is off-limits to teams that use it as a home venue. Pirates, the hosts, chose Soccer City because it was a midweek fixture and would be more convenient for the anticipated crowd.

The Soccer City venue is run by Stadium management, but they often declare the main dressing room out of bounds because Kaizer Chiefs use it. This time, however, Sundowns was allowed to use the Chiefs’ dressing room, and Pirates, the hosts, used the visitors’ changing room.

Sundowns, by the looks of things, must have enjoyed that feeling of playing at home.

3 Leon is becoming a goal glut

Sundowns’ new Colombian striker, Brayan Leon, is quickly establishing himself as a vital asset to the team.

Since his arrival in January, Leon’s impact has been nothing short of extraordinary. For the second consecutive match, he netted all his team’s goals, bringing his remarkable tally to six in just five starts.

Leon’s performances have reignited the hope and excitement among the Sundowns faithful and are taking the pressure off hitherto embattled coach Miguel Cardoso.

4 Williams, the saviour

Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams proved his naysayers wrong by delivering a commanding performance on Wednesday.

Following weeks of speculation surrounding his form, Williams not only silenced his critics but also reinstated himself as a key figure in the team’s line-up. Cardoso singled him out for praise after the match: “Rowen saved us today, Sipho Chaine saved Pirates in other matches, and the pole saved both today because both teams hit the post.”After Williams made a spectacular save from a Deon Hotto shot, he celebrated as if he had just scored the winning goal!

5 Pirates’ 14-match unbeaten run ends

On Wednesday, the high stakes of the Premiership race were highlighted as Pirates’ notable 14-match unbeaten streak came to a halt.

This match, commonly termed a six-pointer in the title race, demonstrated the Pirates’ inability to sustain their momentum against a determined Sundowns team.

This result raises concerns among fans and analysts about the Pirates’ potential to challenge the long-standing champions and deny them a ninth consecutive league title.