Orlando Pirates Secure Historic Treble

Orlando Pirates have etched their name into the history books, completing a remarkable domestic treble for the 2025/26 season. The Buccaneers clinched the Betway Premiership title on Saturday, 23 May, 2026, ending a 14-year league drought with a clinical 2-0 victory over Orbit College at Mbombela Stadium. Two own goals from Orbit’s Sabelo Nkomo and Ndumiso Ngiba sealed the result, pushing Pirates to 69 points, finishing just one point ahead of rivals Mamelodi Sundowns.

This league triumph follows dominant cup runs earlier in the campaign, including an MTN8 title in September 2025 and a Carling Knockout Cup victory in December 2025. This achievement marks only the third time in club history that Pirates have swept all domestic honors.  

However, the celebration is overshadowed by the uncertain future of head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. Following the match, the Moroccan tactician shocked supporters by admitting he is physically and mentally drained. Admitting to being “very, very tired,” Ouaddou cast doubt on whether he would lead the club’s title defense. 

During the post-match conference, he stated:”I work with passion, I work with love, but it’s difficult to lead such a big team. I am tired, I am very, very tired. I need energy, I need power. Without energy, it will be difficult to continue. We will sit down with management and we will see.”

Chairman Irvin Khoza and the board are reportedly awaiting a final decision from Ouaddou as they prepare for the upcoming CAF Champions League campaign.

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