The rivalry between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns has intensified over the past five seasons.
The two teams have produced classic matches, although Mamelodi Sundowns has dominated most of the encounters. However, everything changed when Jose Riveiro took over, leading the Pirates to victory against Sundowns in two cup finals last season.
These defeats have further fueled the rivalry this season, with both teams competing for the Betway Premiership and the CAF Champions League.
Orlando Pirates and Sundowns destined to face each other
They have managed to avoid each other in the Champions League thus far, but they will face off if they both win their semifinal ties. This weekend, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns will compete in the Nedbank Cup semifinals. A victory for both teams will set up a third cup final meeting in just two seasons.
Sundowns have lost their last three cup finals and are eager to change that trend. In contrast, the Pirates have established themselves as cup specialists, winning six trophies in the past five years and remaining unbeaten in domestic finals for nearly seven years. Both teams are head and shoulders above any other in the country and are arguably among the best four teams on the continent.
Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns have faced each other twice in the league, with both teams winning at home. None of the fans are satisfied and would love the two giants to fight it out once more in a cup final. The Buccaneers are the most confident team going into cup finals.
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