Former Orlando Pirates captain Happy Jele believes this season’s Betway
Premiership title will be fiercely contested between three teams: his former
club, Mamelodi Sundowns, and the emerging force of Sekhukhune United. He
also cast doubt on the consistency of rivals Kaizer Chiefs.
Speaking at a club event, the Pirates legend stated that the Buccaneers’
current form has positioned them as serious contenders to finally reclaim
the league, alongside the perennial champions and Sekhukhune’s surprise
challenge.
“For me right now, I think there are three teams contending for the league:
Orlando Pirates, Sundowns, and Sekhukhune—you can’t take them away because
they’ve been doing well,” Jele said. “Kaizer Chiefs are not as consistent.
Sekhukhune are picking up points here and there; they are a team that can
upset anyone. But these three teams are the ones competing.”
Jele highlighted Mamelodi Sundowns’ trademark resilience in grinding out
results, while praising the momentum and growing belief within the Pirates
camp.
“Sundowns are playing well, and even when not at their best, they find a way
to grind out points. Pirates are also doing well,” he observed. “We are
hoping that this consistency can lead them to win the league.”
Reflecting on the club’s long wait for a league title, Jele expressed
confidence that the current generation of players has the capability to end
the drought.
“It has been a while since Orlando Pirates won the league. It’s a major
goal,” he said. “I think we were part of the last group to win it, and this
new generation playing now is doing well. They are capable of taking it this
season.”
He concluded by emphasizing the mental challenge of the campaign: “It’s a
marathon. They need to maintain consistency and go get that league
silverware.”
