Orlando Pirates supporters may find themselves in the unusual position of backing Kaizer Chiefs on 06 May.
Amakhosi travel to Loftus Versfeld to face Mamelodi Sundowns in a crucial league encounter, and with the Buccaneers chasing the title, they will be hoping their fiercest rivals can do them a favour by halting the Brazilians’ momentum.
It’s not the first time Pirates have relied on Chiefs to influence a title race.
Back in May 2011, Amakhosi played a decisive role when they thrashed Ajax Cape Town 4-0 at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.
Ajax, were in pole position to win the 2010/11 title, but goals from Reneilwe Letsholonyane, Knowledge Musona and a brace by Siphiwe Tshabalala handed Chiefs a convincing victory and blew the race wide open.
The result proved to be a turning point. On the final day of the season, Pirates secured a 2-1 win over Golden Arrows, while Ajax were held to a 2-2 draw by Maritzburg United, a combination that saw the Buccaneers crowned champions.
Fast forward 15 years, and history could be repeating itself.
Pirates once again need assistance from Chiefs after dropping points in recent matches, including a defeat to Sundowns.
Although the Buccaneers currently sit a point ahead at the top of the table, Masandawana have a game in hand, leaving the title race finely balanced.
With Chiefs still set to face both contenders, they could yet play the role of kingmakers. Regardless of Pirates’ result in the upcoming Soweto Derby, their title hopes may hinge on Amakhosi taking points off Sundowns.
Pirates need Chiefs to beat Sundowns
However, a victory over Chiefs this Sunday would give the Buccaneers a crucial boost heading into the final stretch of the season.
Should Sundowns stumble before that clash, the Buccaneers might not need any favours after all but for now, all eyes will be on their biggest rivals to lend a helping hand.
Pirates and Chiefs might sit on opposite ends this Sunday but on 06 May, they will be sitting side by side at Loftus.
