The REAL reason why Orlando Pirates are struggling in 2025

Orlando Pirates have lost three league matches this year alone and it could get worse for a team that won their opening seven games.

Orlando Pirates key players Thabiso Sesane. Image: Orlando Pirates website

Orlando Pirates seemed to be on track to win the 2024/25 Betway Premiership.

After seven league matches, the Sea Robbers accumulated 21 points. Their confidence was high after securing the MTN8 trophy for the third consecutive season, making them a formidable team this season. However, an unexpected 1-0 loss to Stellenbosch raised some concerns, but another defeat to Cape Town City a month later created panic among Pirates supporters.

At that time, rivals Mamelodi Sundowns began to extend their lead at the top of the table. By March, after 16 league matches, Orlando Pirates found themselves nearly 20 points behind the Brazilians.

While Sundowns won 14 of their last 15 matches, the Buccaneers suffered four losses in their last nine league games, ultimately surrendering the league title to the Tshwane giants.

So, where did it go wrong for Orlando Pirates?

One significant factor was the injury to Thabiso Sesane, which occurred at a critical point in the season. The young defender suffered a ruptured tendon during a match against Sekhukhune and missed the team’s 4-1 defeat to Sundowns, a game where many felt his presence was sorely missed. Another major issue was the lack of signings in January, particularly in defense.

A player like Fawaaz Basadien could have invigorated the Orlando Pirates’ backline, and an attacking creative midfielder like Feisal Salum might have offered a different dynamic to the team. With the Nedbank Cup and CAF Champions League still to play for, expect the Bucs defence to be tested and stretched to the limit.