Former Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates midfield dynamo Teko Modise has delivered a controversial and somewhat philosophical verdict on the Betway Premiership title favourites.

The former Bafana Bafana midfielder was previewing Wednesday’s clash between the Premier Soccer League (PSL) titans at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg.

“The pressure is not on Mamelodi Sundowns to win the league this time around, it’s on Pirates to win the league.”

Teko Modise’s looks ahead to Pirates v Sundowns on 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐑𝐚𝐜𝐞.

Watch it here: https://t.co/jG94LMbVSm#SSDiski pic.twitter.com/d9tIrRl4Ki

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) February 16, 2026

Many believe the game could either offer a glimpse of Sundowns’ resolve to retain the PSL title for the ninth consecutive season or cement the Soweto giants’ growing statute as champions-in-waiting. Pirates last won the league championship during the 2011/2012 campaign.

Now, Modise, who burst to stardom with the Buccaneers before crossing the floor to the Masandawana, has given his take on what Wednesday’s clash means to the giants’ 2025-2026 Betway Premiership aspirations. Kick-off is 7:30pm Southern African Time.

Previewing the big clash, the SuperSport Television pundit suggested that the pressure is not on Miguel Cardoso’s men to retain the title, but rather on the Buccaneers to win it after 14 seasons.

Who is under pressure between Sundowns and Pirates?

“I strongly believe that it is a game that if Sundowns lose, it makes things worse. If Pirates win, maybe they might say the sky’s the limit. It is that game that: ‘are you [Pirates] going to convince us that you are ready to win the league?” he argued.

“The pressure is not on Mamelodi Sundowns to win the league. This time around, it is for Pirates to win the league, and for Sundowns to lose it. They [Bucca

What either a win or loss mean to Sundowns and Pirates

The former Bafana Bafana star then shared his thoughts on what either a win or a loss would mean to Sundowns and Pirates in the league title chase.

“Whoever wins it, is two different echoes that will be in the camp. Pirates have the momentum and for Sundowns, it might change their fortunes for the league,” Modise added.

Pirates thrashed Marumo Gallants 3-0 on Saturday to open a six-point gap over the holders at the Betway Premiership log table summit.

Despite the cushion, Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is not sitting on his laurels. The Moroccan has warned his charges against complacency, aware that second-placed Sundowns have a game in hand, which could reduce the gap to three points with a win.

Teko Modise Says Pressure Is on Pirates, Not Sundowns, in Betway Premiership Title Race

Former Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates midfield maestro Teko Modise has delivered a bold and somewhat controversial verdict ahead of Wednesday’s blockbuster Betway Premiership clash between the two PSL giants.

The highly anticipated showdown will take place at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, with kick-off scheduled for 7:30pm Southern African Time. Many believe the match could either strengthen Sundowns’ resolve to retain their ninth consecutive league title or confirm Pirates as serious championship contenders for the 2025/26 season.

Teko Modise on Who Is Under Pressure in the Title Race

Speaking on SuperSport Television’s State of the Title Race, Teko Modise argued that the pressure does not lie with reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns — but rather with Orlando Pirates.

“The pressure is not on Mamelodi Sundowns to win the league. This time around, it is for Pirates to win the league, and for Sundowns to lose it.”

According to Modise, Pirates must prove that they are ready to end their long league title drought, having last lifted the PSL trophy in the 2011/2012 season.

He emphasized that Wednesday’s clash is more than just three points — it is about belief and legitimacy.

“Are you [Pirates] going to convince us that you are ready to win the league?” Modise questioned.

What Teko Modise Thinks a Win or Loss Means for Both Teams

Teko Modise believes the psychological impact of the result could shape the remainder of the season for both camps.

He explained:

“I strongly believe that it is a game that if Sundowns lose, it makes things worse. If Pirates win, maybe they might say the sky’s the limit.”

Modise added that momentum currently favors Pirates, but Sundowns have the experience and depth to turn things around.

Possible Outcomes According to Modise:

• A Pirates win could solidify their status as genuine title favorites.

• A Sundowns victory could shift momentum and reignite their championship push.

• A loss for either side could impact confidence within the squad.

Current Betway Premiership Standings

Orlando Pirates strengthened their position at the top of the table with a dominant 3-0 victory over Marumo Gallants on Saturday.

Betway Premiership Title Situation:

• Pirates lead the table with a six-point advantage.

• Sundowns sit second but have a game in hand.

• A Sundowns win in their outstanding fixture could reduce the gap to three points.

Despite the cushion, Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has warned against complacency, acknowledging Sundowns’ proven ability to close gaps in title races.

Teko Modise’s Unique Perspective on Pirates vs Sundowns

Having represented both clubs during his playing career, Teko Modise understands the magnitude of this rivalry.

Modise rose to prominence with Orlando Pirates before making a high-profile move to Mamelodi Sundowns. His experience at both institutions gives weight to his analysis of the current title battle.

Sundowns are chasing an unprecedented ninth consecutive league title, while Pirates are aiming to reclaim domestic dominance after a 14-year wait.

This clash, therefore, represents more than just league points — it is a symbolic battle between sustained dominance and rising ambition.

Why Wednesday’s Match Is Crucial

The FNB Stadium encounter could define the psychological direction of the title race.

For Pirates:

• A win strengthens belief.

• It reinforces their status as leaders.

• It adds pressure on Sundowns to respond.

For Sundowns:

• Victory keeps their dynasty alive.

• It reduces the psychological edge Pirates currently enjoy.

• It demonstrates championship resilience.

As Teko Modise suggests, this is not merely about who wins the league — but about who proves they are mentally ready to claim it.