Reneilwe Letsholonyane Tips Orlando Pirates to End Mamelodi Sundowns’ Dominance as He Reflects on 2010 World Cup Memories

Former Banana Banana and Kaizer Chiefs midfielder, Reneilwe Letsholonyane, reflects on the fond memories of the 2010 FIFA World Cup opener against Mexico, and backs Orlando Pirates to stop Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance by winning the league this season.

The Class of 2010

When Bafana Bafana face Mexico at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, it will be the same occasion in that it is the tournament opener and it will be the same date as their previous fixture during the South Africa-based 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The Bafana players who made the World Cup squad 16 years ago, as per the Department of Sport, will also be in attendance in Mexico. 

Letsholonyane, the central midfielder who was in the starting XI in Johannesburg 16 years ago, will also be in attendance.

In an exclusive interview with SportsBoom, Letsholonyane looks back to the Mexico fixture and describes it as a memorable fixture, not only for the team, but for the country at large.

“When I think of that day, for me, it means everything. I mean, from the morning of the game, the vibe from the hotel, the energy in the streets on our way to the stadium, getting to the stadium and seeing the crowd and realising that everyone is there. Then, walking on the field and seeing one of the best pitches we've ever experienced before at FNB, then. It was simply magical,” Letsholonyane told SportsBoom.co.za. 

“You start the game, now the reality hits because you start singing the anthem, you see the stadium is fully packed, there’s no space, none whatsoever. So, now the reality hits, and you're like, okay, this is me playing a World Cup game." 

“That is a dream coming to realisation on that day. To top it up, it's the goal and the celebration of everyone at the stadium. That day was memorable, and the experience of the entire World Cup,  I will never forget.”

Despite losing the opening fixture 2-1 in 2010, Letsholonyane backs Bafana to come out on top against Mexico next month.

“It’s like a second leg in a way, where 16 years ago we played at home and then years later, the same game, same day is happening in their home ground. They are one of the host countries,” he said.

“We know they always have top-class players who are playing abroad. So, it is going to be a difficult game for Bafana Bafana, but it is doable." 

“We've shown as Bafana Bafana through (success in the) the AFCON, through the qualifiers, they've done well. They've come up against teams that we thought were very difficult to beat, but they managed to get the points from them. It's no different with this one.”

Pirates for League Honours?

Locally, Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates are currently fighting it out for the league honours, with Sundowns sitting at the top of the log and Pirates trailing in second place, three points behind but with a game in hand.

Sundowns are set to play their last game of the season against a strong TS Galaxy side on Tuesday, 12 May, while Pirates have two remaining fixtures against relatively weaker options in Durban City and Orbit College.

Given the current state of proceedings in the league, Letsholonyane believes Pirates have the advantage.

“With regards to who's going to win it, for the first time in a long time, the league has been close, and it's exciting that teams are improving. Mamelodi Sundowns has been Mamelodi Sundowns, setting the bar very high,” he said.

“With the current state of proceedings in the league, it means the teams that are competing and are improving. And well done to Orlando Pirates, they are very close and are pushing Mamelodi Sundowns to where we are currently. Who's going to win it? The odds are more on Orlando Pirates because they should win their last two games." 

“If they win their last two games, that means they are champions, regardless of how Sundowns play their last game. So, the odds are more with Pirates than Mamelodi Sundowns. But there’s still to play for. Anything can still happen.”

Chiefs Current State

Kaizer Chiefs beat Sekhukhune United on Sunday, 10 May, and moved one step closer to securing a third-place finish in the league.

Chiefs legend Letsholonyane has called for patience with the current crop of players, citing that they can be serious title contenders next season.

“With regards to Chiefs, I didn't think Chiefs for this season will be competing for the league. But I'd say for sure Chiefs is guaranteed this time around a top eight spot,” he said.

“The focus should be building and preparing for next season because the players that Chiefs have signed for this season are very decent players. They can compete with any other player in the league. They must not be put under pressure to win the league immediately this season, when most of them are new and trying to find their feet in the team." 

“I believe with their current performances and results, next season they should be competing fully with the other top teams that are competing for the league; it's a non-negotiable," he concluded.