Moeneeb Josephs: Why the PSL title race is over for Pirates

Orlando Pirates legend Moeneeb Josephs has delivered a blunt reality check to the Ghost, insisting that while his heart remains at Mayfair, the Betway Premiership title race is effectively over.

The former Buccaneers shot-stopper believes Mamelodi Sundowns’ vast experience in “championship rounds” makes them untouchable, especially after Pirates’ recent stumble against Richards Bay FC.

‘Mindset is not quite there’ – Moeneeb on Pirates Players

The Buccaneers missed a golden opportunity to summit the log last Friday, needing a late rescue act to secure a 2-2 draw against the Natal Rich Boyz. That result leaves the Soweto giants one point behind Sundowns, but crucially, the defending champions hold a game in hand.

Should Masandawana win their game in hand, the gap widens to four points with only six games left to play—a margin Josephs believes is insurmountable against a team chasing their ninth consecutive league crown.

⚽️ Moeneeb explains emotional reaction to Pirates defeat ⚽️

This is how Moeneeb Josephs feels when Orlando Pirates keep dropping crucial points in the league ☠️⚽️

📺: https://t.co/s7mFF4A6h0#OrlandoPirates #GoldenHour #AirMobile #BetwayPrem #AbsaFootballFridays pic.twitter.com/N0CtPV6G2e

— SoccerBeat (@SoccerBeatZA) April 15, 2026

“Sundowns have got acres and miles in an abundance of experience in doing this thing,” Josephs told the Soccer Beat podcast. “Every time when it’s crucial for us, we slip up. For me, the mindset is not quite there yet.”

Moeneeb Josephs: Why Sundowns have already ended Pirates’ title hopes

Josephs, who currently serves as the Kenyan national team goalkeeper coach, admitted his assessment comes from a place of frustration as a supporter who has seen the team show “unbelievable character” throughout the campaign.

However, the Mitchells Plain-born legend says the math simply doesn’t favour the Sea Robbers.

“If we were competing with a Sekhukhune or AmaZulu, I’d feel we have a chance. But this is Sundowns. They have won it eight times in a row. If we add up all our available points, it will be 73. If we add up Sundowns’ points, it will be 77. It’s not in our control.”

For “Slim Kat,” the pain lies in the fact that Pirates had the Brazilians within reach just weeks ago, only to let the pressure slip during the final hurdle.

“If you’ve been doing the best all season, and you lose the last point, then unfortunately, you’re not going to be the best,” he added. “I am an Orlando Pirates supporter, but I also have my own feelings. If I voice my opinion of how I feel, that’s how I feel.”

As the season enters its final stretch, Josephs’ verdict is clear: until Pirates can match the ruthless consistency of the Chloorkop outfit, the wait for a league title will continue.