By Julia Moyo. Picture supplied
Orlando Pirates were crowned 2025/26 Betway Premiership champions on Saturday, May 23, after securing a 2-0 victory over Orbit College on the final day of the season. The win saw the Buccaneers finish top of the table with 69 points, narrowly ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns on 68 points.
Pirates went into the match knowing that only a win would guarantee them the league title, and they delivered under pressure with a disciplined and confident performance away from home. The Soweto giants have enjoyed a remarkable campaign, recording 21 wins in 30 matches and producing some dominant performances throughout the season, including a 6-0 victory over TS Galaxy and a 3-0 Soweto Derby win over Kaizer Chiefs earlier in the year.
Today’s triumph marks a historic moment for the Buccaneers, ending years of frustration in the league race and giving supporters a long-awaited reason to celebrate. For many fans, it is especially emotional as the club last lifted the league title in 2012. Pirates showed consistency, resilience and attacking quality throughout the campaign, with key players stepping up in crucial moments as they battled Sundowns in one of the closest title races in recent PSL history.
Supporters across South Africa flooded social media with celebrations after the final whistle, as the black and white half of Soweto celebrated being crowned champions once again.
