Teko Modise Backs Orlando Pirates to Challenge Mamelodi Sundowns Next Season

• DStv Premiership giants, Orlando Pirates, have had an inconsistent 2023/24 season
• The Bucs' PSL title wait continued after Mamelodi Sundowns' seventh straight crown
• Former Masandawana star, Teko Modise, tipped Pirates to go for the title next season

Orlando Pirates have not won the DStv Premiership since 2012.

The Buccaneers finished second last season and were expected to compete with giants, Mamelodi Sundowns, this season but that hasn't materialised.

Former Pirates and Sundowns star, Teko Modise, believes Jose Riveiro's side is in an excellent position to challenge Masandawana's dominance next season.

Pirates have had a phenomenal 2024, but their impressive run of form came too late as Sundowns clinched the title with six matches left.

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The Bucs' title credentials will be tested when they meet the champions in the Nedbank Cup final next month. Even with Pitso Mosimane gone, the Brazilians are perhaps stronger under Rulani Mokwena.

However, Modise believes Pirates are ready to challenge Sundowns next season, per iDiski Times:

"I think definitely, 100%. I think every fan in South Africa will tell you that because I think from a squad balance point of view, I think Pirates have a balanced squad and I think they have every right to be able to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns in the league."

Pirates won the league in 2011 and 2012 but have not come close to ending Masandawana's stranglehold, per Transfermarkt.

Despite this, Modise believes the Sea Robbers have a much bigger squad and are better placed to challenge Sundowns.

"I strongly believe that Orlando Pirates should be the team automatically challenging Mamelodi Sundowns for the league."

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Next season, Pirates will need to be more consistent to have a chance of winning the league.

Ramokgadi calls out Riveiro

Sports Brief earlier reported on Bruce Ramokgadi, criticising Riveiro, saying the Spaniard will never lead the club to league glory.

The former Orlando Pirates star does not like the coach's management style, adding that his team selection is also inconsistent.

Riveiro calls out his players

Sports Brief also reported on Pirates coach, Riveiro, criticising his players following their frustrating defeat to Sekhukhune United in March.

The Spanish coach was unimpressed with how his players performed in the game, suggesting that the problem could've been their attitudes.