Friends divided: Sundowns-Pirates clash splits PSL legends

Imagine a friendship built on shared dreams, countless hours dissecting football tactics, and an unbreakable bond forged in the fires of the PSL.

That's Brighton Mhlongo and Oupa Manyisa.

They agree on almost everything. Except, of course, when Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates are about to face-off.

This weekend, as Orlando Pirates prepare to host league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, the anticipation won’t just be buzzing in the stands; it's crackling in the very air between these two best friends.
It’s a rivalry that transcends the 90 minutes, a personal duel played out amidst the roar of the crowd.

Mhlongo, who enjoyed a successful career at Soweto giants Orlando Pirates as a goal keeper, is adamant that despite what his best mate says, Oupa will always be a Pirates fan.

“Myself and Oupa have our own opinions about the game,” Mhlongo tells Showmax. “He (Oupa) might’ve played for Sundowns, but he knows truly that his blood will forever be black and white.”

Manyisa, who played for both Pirates and Sundowns, politely disagrees with his best mate.

“I'm grateful for our friendship, which dates back to our academy days.,” says Manyisa. “While we share similar views on most things, our opinions diverge when it comes to the Sundowns and Pirates game. I've always maintained that Sundowns will emerge victorious, playing beautiful football. Having had the privilege of playing for both teams, I hold them dear to my heart. However, when the two teams face off, my loyalty lies with Mamelodi Sundowns.”

While it’s the one day the two become enemies, they both relish the fixture and cannot wait for kick-off come Sunday.

The game, which takes place at the FNB Stadium, on Sunday, 16 March at 15:30, will be shown live on Showmax Premier League.

“I think both teams understand what’s at stake coming into this one,” says Mhlongo. “Pirates lost the first round away from home with a huge margin so I’d believe that the boys are baying for blood .They wouldn’t want to lose both home and away fixtures against the opposition, so I am predicting a Pirates win.”

Manyisa is having none of it, though.

“My prediction for the match is that Sundowns walk away 2-0 winners, with Lucas Ribeiro scoring,” says Manyisa. “This season, Sundowns began on shaky ground but gradually gained momentum and confidence. As a result, they currently occupy the top spot in the Betway Premiership. Lucas Ribeiro has been phenomenal, leading the league in scoring. His consistency has earned him my vote for footballer of the season.

“Marcelo Allende's leadership has been instrumental in Sundowns' success, with the team having secured seven consecutive league titles. Now, with a 16-point lead at the top, I firmly believe they'll take the title again.

“In my opinion, Sundowns' success isn't solely due to other teams being weak. Rather, it's a testament to the team's belief in their players, technical staff, and process. This conviction has propelled them to the top.”

While Sundowns may occupy top spot in the Betway Premiership, Mhlongo believes his former team are having an excellent season.

“Pirates have been ⁠quite impressive .The last time Pirates started like a house on fire winning 5-7 consecutive games was the championship winning 2002/03 season. This Pirates team under the leadership of Don Jose have been breaking boundaries showing great improvement, hunger and resilience with the will to win at all costs. It’s most certainly without a doubt one of the best Pirates teams in history and don’t quote me eating, but we’ve had the CAF winning team, the double treble-winning squad and the group that went to continental finals in quick successions, so this group has also written their names in the club's history books when no one gave them a chance. I am truly proud of them.”
Asked which Pirates players have impressed him the most this season, Mhlongo says: ”⁠I wish I could say the entire team because they’re all putting up great performances whenever given a chance; however, I’d single out three players: Makhehleni Makhaula , Sipho Chaine and Mohau Nkota.”

As a former goalkeeper, Mhlongo says he is also incredibly proud of the goalkeeping department at Pirates.

“Special mention must go to coach Tyron Damon and Coach Siyabonga Mpontshane. I’ve worked with both of them. They're great human beings, very grounded in the principle of hard work, fairness and brotherhood and we are seeing the results of their work through Sipho and Melusi.

"Sipho has grown to be one of the best goalkeepers to have donned the Pirates jersey and I thank the coach for not giving up on him when he was still carving his own path. Soon he’ll definitely win goalkeeper of the season.

“As for Melusi Buthelezi, what a great humble soul! It’s always difficult to keep steady, clapping for the next person whilst you’re waiting patiently for your turn. Trust me when I say he’s doing a fantastic job in keeping Sipho on his toes whilst playing a huge supporting role on and off the pitch. He has delivered to the mandate so overall I’m quite proud and pleased with the entire goalkeeping department and well done to coach Ty and the boys.”

Mhlongo says he isn’t missing out on the opportunity of being at FNB Stadium this weekend. “I’ll definitely be at the stadium. It’s always a cracking atmosphere. It will be the first time that Pirates will be hosting Sundowns at FNB Stadium in a league much during our PSL era, so I don’t know how much of a psychological effect this would bring to the table for both players and fans, but believe me when I say we’re going to see a possible Nedbank Cup and Champions League final in one day.”

While Manyisa would love to be at the stadium this weekend, he says commitments elsewhere will keep him away from enjoying the game with his best mate. “I'm eagerly anticipating the upcoming match, and I am expecting both teams to employ different strategies. Unfortunately, I won't be in attendance, as I'll be in Kimberley.”

Mhlongo says he is expecting a proper fight from the Buccaneers on Sunday and will definitely be in touch with Manyisa when the final whistle is blown. “⁠I think Pirates have given it their all this season. I’ve never seen the boys fight from start to finish like they’ve done this season. Even what one would deem as dropping of points you could see that they’ve given a good account of themselves and have left no stone unturned. I love the fire and passion and the synergies from management, players and the fans. It’s just so beautiful to witness. I’m a happy fan, and expect a win for Pirates come Sunday.”

Orlando Pirates v Mamelodi Sundowns takes place on Sunday, 16 March 2025 at 15:30 at FNB Stadium, and will be shown live on Showmax Premier League.

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