Former Orlando Pirates striker Benni McCarthy has warned that his former club will face a difficult task in their attempt to win the Betway Premiership title this season, citing the strong mentality of defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
McCarthy believes Pirates have improved significantly, particularly with their recruitment, but says Sundowns’ experience and winning culture could make the title race extremely challenging.
The race at the top of the table has been closely contested throughout the campaign, with Pirates and Sundowns exchanging positions in recent weeks. The Buccaneers currently sit at the summit with 48 points, although they dropped points over the weekend against Bloemfontein Celtic.
Sundowns, however, have the opportunity to reclaim first place if they defeat Marumo Gallants in their upcoming fixture. A win would see them move two points clear of Pirates at the top of the standings.
Speaking to iDiski Times senior journalist Matshelane Mamabolo in edition 246 of the publication, McCarthy acknowledged that Pirates appear stronger this season but stressed that the club must overcome a formidable opponent in Sundowns.
“I think the recruitment and everything has been so much better, and Pirates look like they can make a push,” McCarthy told iDiski Times.
“But, yeah, I think it’s really sad that it’s been a long time. Yeah. 14 years ago, was the last time that Pirates dominated and won.”
The former striker also praised Sundowns’ long-term planning and leadership, highlighting the role played by club owner Patrice Motsepe in building a dominant side.
“Credit has to go to Mamelodi Sundowns. Very nice! Patrice [Motsepe] came in, put the money there, it’s easy. You can get sidetracked, but the way that he went about it, he got the right coaches in, he got the right stability to stabilise the club and to win nine back-to-back. Is it nine times?” he said.
McCarthy added that Sundowns’ ability to maintain high standards season after season sets them apart from many rivals.
“I think it’s more competitive, but then Sundowns have been so dominant. It’s like their recruiting is phenomenal. They are relentless in the way they pursue to be champions, it is also applaudable.
“Like, wow, you envy that because to have that mindset, you win the championship, you win the league, you’re the champ and a lot of players lose their focus. Now, you think you’re bigger than what you are. Like, you made it, because that’s very common in South Africa. You win one thing, and all of a sudden, you’re the man, you’re the superstar.”
He continued by praising the mentality of the Sundowns squad, suggesting their hunger to remain champions has been key to their sustained success.
“But they’ve been at it year after year after year. So, yeah, those players, the mentality that they have is incredible, so you have to commend that. And it will be hard for everybody else to be chasing that because somehow, it’s harder to win. And those players also know what it means to be a champion. And you can see that they thrive on it, and they don’t want to give that up.”
Despite recognising Sundowns’ strength, McCarthy said he hopes Pirates can end the champions’ dominance, arguing that a new winner could benefit the wider league.
“So Pirates have their work cut out for them, but I hope, I think it will be a good advert for South African football if Pirates can change it up and somebody else can win the league, and the dominance is not so high, it’s always a one-sided affair because then I’m sure teams like Chiefs will also be inspired by that.”
He added that success for Pirates could encourage other clubs, including Kaizer Chiefs, to improve their recruitment and competitiveness.
“‘Like, hey, you know what? Our recruitment, whatever we can do, if Pirates can change that trajectory, we can too.’ And other teams will follow suit, you know?
“So, I’m wishing Pirates all the best in their pursuit of winning the title, and I hope they can do it for South Africa.”
