Orlando Pirates vs AmaZulu FC Preview: Odds, Tips and Prediction

Orlando Pirates have been giving Mamelodi Sundowns a run for their money this season, sitting two points behind the defending South African league champions.

However, their momentum came to a halt in their recent game against Richards Bay, playing to a 2-2 draw and giving Masandawana a chance to extend the lead.

Maintaining their sterling form despite the pause in March for international friendlies, Pirates demolished Golden Arrows 5-0 at their home ground in Soweto.

Before the short break, the Buccaneers handed out a similar thrashing to the struggling TS Galaxy, scoring a massive six goals and keeping a clean sheet.

The week before, Pirates were held to a surprising 1-1 draw against Siwelele FC in front of their home supporters, just days after a 2-0 win against Richards Bay.

With Sundowns aiming to defend their title for a ninth consecutive term, the Bucs are looking stronger in second than they were in the same spot last season.

Earlier this month, AmaZulu saw their Confederation Cup hopes dimming after being knocked out of third place by Kaizer Chiefs, who have a few games in hand.

That light was further dimmed with a 1-1 draw against Siwelele in Bloemfontein, with the AmaKhosi likely to move out of reach and leave Usuthu in fourth.

In their first match after the international break, AmaZulu were unable to get the job done and drew 2-2 with Sekhukhune, who are just behind them on the table.

This was less than ideal for the Durban outfit, who went into the March window rolling from a 1-0 win over Polokwane City FC and a 2-1 victory over Richards Bay FC.

While AmaZulu are near the top of the Betway Premiership standings, their inconsistency was underlined with a 0-0 draw against the relegation-threatened Magesi.

As Sekhukhune United and Durban City sit just three points behind, in fifth and sixth place respectively, Usuthu need to somehow survive the top-class Pirates.