{"id":37101,"date":"2026-05-25T10:39:01","date_gmt":"2026-05-25T08:39:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/?p=37101"},"modified":"2026-05-25T10:39:02","modified_gmt":"2026-05-25T08:39:02","slug":"orlando-pirates-betway-champions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/orlando-pirates-betway-champions\/","title":{"rendered":"Orlando Pirates Crowned 2025\/26 Betway Premiership Champions"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Orlando Pirates are the new 2025\/26 Betway Premiership Champions after beating Orbit College 2-0 on the final day of the season. The Soweto giants secured the title at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday and ended a 14-year wait for league glory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Buccaneers needed all three points to lift the trophy. As a result, they delivered a composed and dominant performance under pressure. The victory also completed a domestic treble for Orlando Pirates, making the season one of the club\u2019s greatest campaigns in the PSL era.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pirates finished the season with 69 points after recording a club-record 21 wins in 30 matches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Orlando Pirates End 14-Year League Drought<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"540\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-97.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-37102\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-97.png 540w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-97-240x300.png 240w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-97-150x188.png 150w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-97-450x563.png 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 540px) 100vw, 540px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image: Orlando Pirates FC<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Orlando Pirates entered the final match day knowing only a win would secure the title. Therefore, the team started aggressively and controlled possession from the opening whistle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Early chances came through Thalente Mbatha and Relebohile Mofokeng. Mbatha tested goalkeeper Sabelo Nkomo with a long-range effort, while Mofokeng\u2019s deflected shot narrowly missed the target.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Despite the pressure, Orbit College defended bravely during the first half. However, Pirates continued to push forward and created several dangerous moments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tshepang Moremi nearly opened the scoring after receiving a clever chip from Oswin Appollis. Unfortunately for Pirates, his effort sailed over the crossbar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Orbit also threatened briefly through Lethabo Modimoeng, who missed narrowly from close range after a corner kick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nevertheless, Pirates maintained momentum throughout the first half.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">ALSO READ: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/mamelodi-sundowns-win-caf\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/mamelodi-sundowns-win-caf\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mamelodi Sundowns Win 2026 CAF Champions League<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-3519497478\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Own Goals Seal Betway Premiership Champions Title<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"540\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-98.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-37103\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-98.png 540w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-98-240x300.png 240w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-98-150x188.png 150w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-98-450x563.png 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 540px) 100vw, 540px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Image: Orlando Pirates FC<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The breakthrough finally arrived just before halftime. Orbit goalkeeper Sabelo Nkomo failed to clear a Pirates corner and punched the ball into his own net under pressure from Mbatha.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That goal gave Orlando Pirates a crucial 1-0 lead heading into the break.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Soon after the second half started, Pirates doubled their advantage. Defender Ndumiso Ngiba accidentally turned the ball into his own net while attempting to stop Yanela Mbuthuma.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The second own goal effectively ended Orbit College\u2019s resistance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Afterwards, Pirates controlled the match comfortably and managed the game professionally until the final whistle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Historic Season for Orlando Pirates<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The 2025\/26 season will remain memorable for Orlando Pirates supporters. Not only did the club win the league title, but they also completed a domestic treble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Furthermore, Pirates showed consistency throughout the campaign. They displayed attacking quality, defensive discipline, and mental strength during pressure moments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Key achievements from the season include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>2025\/26 Betway Premiership title winners<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>69 points from 30 matches<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>21 league victories<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Domestic treble winners<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>First league title in 14 years<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The title race went down to the final day, which made the triumph even more significant for the Buccaneers faithful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-958384027\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Players Deliver Under Pressure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Several Orlando Pirates players stood out during the decisive fixture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thalente Mbatha remained influential in midfield and constantly troubled the Orbit defence. Meanwhile, Relebohile Mofokeng showed creativity and confidence in attack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yanela Mbuthuma also caused problems for Orbit defenders with his pressing and movement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition, goalkeeper Sipho Chaine delivered another calm performance at the back whenever Pirates needed defensive stability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The official Man of the Match award went to Simphiwe Selepe after an impressive display in midfield.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Full Orlando Pirates Starting XI<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pirates coach Jose Riveiro selected a balanced team for the title decider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Orlando Pirates XI vs Orbit College<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Chaine<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seema<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sibisi<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sebelebele<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ndaba<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Selepe<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mbatha<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mofokeng<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Appollis<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moremi<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mbuthuma<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Substitutes used:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Maswanganyi<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mariko<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Makgopa<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hotto<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dansin<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The squad handled the pressure professionally and delivered when it mattered most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-509429091\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What This Betway Premiership Champions Victory Means<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.orlandopiratesfc.com\/news\/orlando-pirates-are-2025-26-betway-premiership-champions\/?fbclid=IwY2xjawSA5SpleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFlTWlzTlFjczVETldzSTB3c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHi5iQgWNPCOkrVfWCggHhCUuoNBf5eL_NGoKtPM4nTHu_qzciC3MNvQ37tQx_aem_w46KdA_wNEOA5XtxgqO8ow\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.orlandopiratesfc.com\/news\/orlando-pirates-are-2025-26-betway-premiership-champions\/?fbclid=IwY2xjawSA5SpleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFlTWlzTlFjczVETldzSTB3c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHi5iQgWNPCOkrVfWCggHhCUuoNBf5eL_NGoKtPM4nTHu_qzciC3MNvQ37tQx_aem_w46KdA_wNEOA5XtxgqO8ow\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">This title victory<\/a> marks a major turning point for Orlando Pirates. For years, supporters waited for the club to reclaim domestic dominance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now, Pirates have finally ended that drought and restored belief among fans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The triumph also strengthens the club\u2019s status as one of South Africa\u2019s biggest football institutions. Moreover, it highlights the progress made under the current technical team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Winning the league after such a close title race will likely increase expectations for next season. Pirates supporters will now hope the team can build on this success in both domestic and continental competitions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1779697652364\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Who won the 2025\/26 Betway Premiership title?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Orlando Pirates won the 2025\/26 Betway Premiership title<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1779697671549\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">What was the final score between Orbit College and Orlando Pirates?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Orlando Pirates defeated Orbit College 2-0.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1779697689703\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">How long did Orlando Pirates wait for the league title?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Pirates waited 14 years to win the league title again.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Orlando Pirates ended a 14-year wait by winning the 2025\/26 Betway Premiership title after beating Orbit College 2-0 at Mbombela Stadium.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":37104,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_focus_keyword":"","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[56],"tags":[273,288,283],"class_list":["post-37101","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-sports","tag-orlando-pirates","tag-soccer","tag-sports"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37101","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=37101"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37101\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37105,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37101\/revisions\/37105"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/37104"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=37101"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=37101"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=37101"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}