Teko Modise: why Sundowns vs Pirates is a ‘six-pointer’ title decider

South African football legend Teko Modise believes tonight’s heavyweight clash between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns is far more than just a regular league fixture—it is a season-defining “six-pointer.”

The two giants of the Betway Premiership set to collide at FNB Stadium (19:30) in a match that has the entire country talking. Pirates currently lead the standings with 38 points, while the defending champions, Sundowns, trail by six points but hold a crucial game in hand.

While the Buccaneers’ camp has been careful to play down the “title decider” tag, Modise—who starred for both clubs during his illustrious career—insists that the psychological weight of this result will dictate the destination of the trophy.

The Battle for the Summit between Pirates and Sundowns

A victory for Abdeslam Ouaddou’s men would catapult them nine points clear, putting them in the driving seat to end a decade-long league drought. Conversely, a win for the Brazilians would slash the gap to just three points, effectively putting the title race back in their own hands.

Speaking on the Pitchside Podcast, “The General” highlighted why the timing of this match is critical for his former side, Sundowns.

“Sundowns are coming off a big win [in the Champions League], and in football, you need that momentum. In games of this magnitude, you can’t afford even a single lapse in concentration. For me, this isn’t just a three-point game; it’s a six-pointer,” Modise explained.

He dismissed the idea that it is “too early” in the campaign to call it a decider.

“Even though it’s only game 16 for Sundowns, a victory creates momentum that carries you through the rest of the season. I’ll give you a practical example: One year, we returned from Ghana and found ourselves 10 points behind Kaizer Chiefs. We were struggling, but we won one game against Bidvest Wits and we didn’t lose again until we won the league. We just needed that spark.”

Modise noted the unique pressure sitting on both benches. Sundowns are fighting to protect an eight-year dynasty, while Pirates are carrying the weight of 12 years without a league title.

“The pressure is entirely on Sundowns to defend their crown, but the excitement now is the real possibility of seeing Pirates win the title if they can pull this off. This game changes everything. Pirates are facing Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs back-to-back, which could cause them to stumble. But it has to start with Sundowns taking the initiative.”

As it stands, the Buccaneers have been clinical, recording 12 wins from 16 games. However, facing a Sundowns side that has mastered the art of the “title run-in” will be the ultimate test of their championship credentials.