EXCLUSIVE I Winner of Orlando Pirates–Mamelodi Sundowns clash could win the league, says Benedict Vilakazi

Former Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates midfielder Benedict Vilakazi believes the winner of Wednesday night’s Betway Premiership blockbuster between the Buccaneers and the Brazilians could carry the momentum all the way to lifting the league title in May.

The two sides meet at FNB Stadium in a 7.30pm kick-off.

Sundowns head into the clash buoyed by a positive turn in their CAF Champions League campaign after a 2-0 victory over MC Alger moved them a step closer to an elusive second continental crown. 

However, their domestic title defence has stumbled in recent months, leaving the defending champions in an unfamiliar and potentially dangerous position.

Should they fail to avoid defeat against Pirates, Sundowns could find themselves nine points adrift at the top of the table — a gap that may prove difficult to recover from at this stage of the season. 

Ironically, it was a similar scenario that contributed to Pirates falling away last term as they struggled to balance league ambitions with continental commitments and ultimately could not make up the lost ground.

While Sundowns have built a reputation for managing the demands of both domestic and African competitions, this may represent one of their sternest tests yet if they are forced to chase from behind. 

The recent Champions League triumph helped ease pressure on coach Miguel Cardoso and his squad after a tense spell, but with their backs still against the wall, anything less than victory could quickly reignite scrutiny.

Vilakazi, who represented both Pirates and Sundowns during his playing career, praised Sundowns’ resilience and believes the continental success will boost their belief — even though he feels Pirates currently hold a slight edge.

“This clash has grown to become like one of the derbies,” Vilakazi told Independent Newspapers.

“It will be a tough contest that, if Pirates win, will see them open up a nine-point gap at the top of the log — something we have not seen in recent years.

“Sundowns had a good game over the weekend, and I was very proud of the boys after so much pressure. Their win will give them confidence to stand toe-to-toe with Pirates.

“It will be a game of fine margins, but on form, Pirates are edging it.”

The former Bafana Bafana international was pleased to see Sundowns rediscover their trademark blend of efficiency and flair, which had been missing in recent months.

“For the first time in a long time, I have seen Sundowns play football in their own way, and that will make things very interesting,” he added.

With both sides coming off important victories, Vilakazi expects a cautious but high-quality encounter. Ultimately, he believes the psychological impact of this fixture could shape the remainder of the campaign.

“There will be a lot of caution, as Pirates have very good players who can change the complexion of the game at any given time, and the same applies to Sundowns.

“They have quality and creativity, and it will be made even more exciting because both sides are coming off two good results. 

“And the way I look at it now, if Pirates beat Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs, then they will win the league. If Pirates truly want to win the league, they need to beat both these teams because they are currently the top three teams.”he concluded.

* Obakeng Meletse is Independent Media’s multi-sport writer. For fresh video content, follow TheClutch or click the link on the side. YouTube channel The Clutch