Sundowns’ Adams throws psychological jab at title-chasing Pirates

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has thrown a psychological jab at Orlando Pirates, insisting the pressure in the Betway Premiership title race has shifted to Soweto as the Brazilians’ grip on the trophy reaches a breaking point.

Sundowns’ pursuit of a ninth consecutive league title hit a massive roadblock this week following a 3-2 defeat to TS Galaxy at the Mbombela Stadium. The result has left the perennial champions vulnerable, clinging to a three-point lead but having played more games than their rivals.

The math is now simple but devastating for the Chloorkop outfit: Orlando Pirates have two games in hand and a superior goal difference. One win from their remaining fixtures—against Durban City FC on Saturday or Orbit College FC—will officially crown the Buccaneers champions for the first time in 14 years.

Despite the momentum swinging toward the Sea Robbers, Adams remains defiant, suggesting that the burden of expectation now sits with Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side.

Jayden Adams: Pirates are the ones feeling the heat, not Sundowns

“Yeah, there’s still hope [to win the league]. We’re still top of the log, so the pressure is on them,” Adams said.

While the league title is now out of their hands, Adams emphasised that Sundowns’ season remains high-stakes as they chase continental glory and a lucrative ticket to the global stage.

“If we win [the CAF Champions League], we qualify for the Club World Cup, you know. It’s a massive achievement for us,” he added.

The Brazilians’ league slump has been characterised by a shocking defensive frailty. Sundowns have shipped seven goals in their last two outings—four against Siwelele and three against Galaxy—a tally unheard of for a team that has dominated South African football for nearly a decade.

Nuno Santos admitted the squad is in a race against time to plug the holes before hosting Moroccan giants AS FAR Rabat in the first leg of the CAF Champions League final on Sunday.

“We must review with the coaches what’s wrong, what mistakes we make that we don’t want to repeat, and then train to get better at that point in specific, and move on. That’s it,” Santos said.

As Pirates prepare to potentially end a 14-year championship drought, Sundowns must pivot quickly. With the domestic “dynasty” on life support, the focus shifts to Pretoria this weekend, where continental redemption and a spot at the FIFA Club World Cup are the only prizes left to save their season.