By Rorisang Rampheteng
Johannesburg — Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns are preparing for a massive showdown this Wednesday night at the FNB Stadium. This match is the biggest game of the season because both teams are fighting to be the champions of South Africa. Orlando Pirates are currently in great form and want to stop Sundowns from winning the league title again.
In their last five matches against each other, the results have been very close and exciting. Their most recent league meeting in November 2025 ended in a 1-1 draw. Before that, they met in the MTN8 semi-finals in August 2025, which also ended 1-1 before Pirates won on penalties. In the 2024/25 season, the teams traded wins; Sundowns won 4-1 in February, but Pirates fought back to win the next match 2-1 in March. Perhaps the most famous recent result was the 2024 Nedbank Cup Final, where Orlando Pirates beat Sundowns 2-1 to lift the trophy.
As of February 17, 2026, Orlando Pirates are sitting at the very top of the Betway Premiership log. They have played 16 matches, winning 12, drawing 2, and losing only 2, which gives them a total of 38 points. Mamelodi Sundowns are currently in second place with 32 points. Sundowns have played 15 matches (one less than Pirates) with a record of 9 wins, 5 draws, and only 1 loss. Because Pirates are 6 points ahead, Sundowns must win this game to close the gap and keep the title race alive.
The much-anticipated game is scheduled to take place today, February 18, 2026, with the official kick-off set for 19:30 (7:30 PM CAT). The match will be hosted at the iconic FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, where over 60,000 fans are expected to fill the stands.
