Orlando Pirates Closing In On Kaizer Chiefs In Trophy Race - Diski 365

Orlando Pirates are once again on the brink of silverware glory. The Buccaneers have a chance to edge closer to Kaizer Chiefs in South African football's long-standing trophy rivalry when they face Marumo Gallants in the Carling Knockout final on December 6 at Peter Mokaba Stadium. Pirates enter this clash with a strong motivation to add another title to their growing collection. Despite their history in the competition, it has not been their most rewarding tournament. They have lifted the trophy only once and finished as runners-up five times during the PSL era. Still, their recent form and hunger for success suggest they will approach the final with confidence and focus. In the broader picture, the Buccaneers are in a tight race with their Soweto rivals, Kaizer Chiefs, for domestic supremacy. Including their four league titles, Pirates now boast a total of 18 trophies from the PSL era. This tally excludes the 1996 BP Top 8 and CAF Super Cup, both earned before the PSL's official inception in August that year. Kaizer Chiefs remain slightly ahead with 21 trophies, also featuring four league titles. The difference may appear small, but the rivalry between the two clubs gives every new final added meaning. For both fan bases, bragging rights extend beyond the league standings to the legacy built in cup competitions. Standing above both clubs is Mamelodi Sundowns. Their dominance in the PSL era has been unmatched, with 15 league titles contributing to a total of 28 major trophies. The Pretoria giants have added continental honors such as the CAF Champions League, CAF Super Cup, and the recently introduced African Football League, putting them in a league of their own. Pirates' potential success in December could narrow the gap with Chiefs to just two trophies, their closest margin in years. A win in Polokwane would raise their count to 19. If they go on to secure both the Nedbank Cup and the league title later this season, they could even draw level with Amakhosi, depending on Chiefs' performance in the CAF Confederation Cup. Since the PSL's establishment in 1996, Pirates have played in 30 finals, winning 14 of them. This record includes their continental campaigns, where they reached one CAF Champions League final and two Confederation Cup finals but finished runners-up each time. The Carling Knockout final represents more than another opportunity for silverware. It is a statement match for a club determined to reassert its dominance in South African football. If Pirates succeed, they will tighten the chase on Chiefs, fueling one of the most iconic rivalries in African sport as the domestic season pauses for the AFCON.