'Orlando Pirates' Champions League exit not a factor' - Aubrey Modiba

Africa 31 October 2025 at 12:31

Hlayisani Magoro

News Editor

01.11.25 FT South African Betway Premiership

Mamelodi Sundowns FC

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Orlando Pirates

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Mamelodi Sundowns defender Aubrey Modiba has shrugged off the notion that Orlando Pirates will come guns blazing for the Betway Premiership title due their premature exit from the CAF Champions League.

The Soweto giants were eliminated by the Democratic Republic of Congo outfit St-Eloi Lupopo via penalties after a 3-3 draw across the two legs in the second preliminary round.

With the gruesome Champions League out of the picture, Abdeslam Ouaddou's men have been tipped to topple the dominant Sundowns, who will be juggling continental and domestic duties.

However, the Downs left-back believes Pirates would still push Masandawana to the limits for the championship, regardless of whether they are competing in Africa's premier club competition or not.

“I don't think them being knocked out of the Champions League really helps them because I think they've got a really good squad, they've got depth in their squad, they've signed very quality players this season,” said Modiba.

"I think even if they were still in the Champions Leagues, they would still give us a good run for our money because of the quality that they have - they could juggle the Champions League, MTN8, League, and the national team as well because they've got many players in the national team as well.

"So, I don't think that changes anything because they've got depth in their squad, the quality, they are doing well.

Sundowns will host Pirates in a top-of-the-table Betway Premiership clash at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday (15h30).

Related teams and leagues

Mamelodi Sundowns FC

Orlando Pirates

South African Betway Premiership