The current Betway Premiership title race is tightening up. Orlando Pirates lead the log with 35 points after 15 matches. Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs follow closely with 31 points each.
On the surface, this looks like a competitive season. However, Bafana Bafana legend Doctor Khumalo is not impressed. He believes the narrow gap is misleading.
A Regression in Points
Analysis shows a significant shift in performance. At this stage last season, Mamelodi Sundowns had accumulated 42 points. Now, they sit at 31.
Khumalo argues that the challengers are not necessarily better. Instead, the defending champions have simply regressed. He expressed these views during a recent Carling Black Label event.
“Fix Yourself First”
The former playmaker is critical of teams taking advantage of Sundowns’ “crippled” state. He believes a true champion should beat their rivals at their best.
“Why do you have to wait for them to be crippled and then you take advantage?” Khumalo asked. He noted that Sundowns are currently facing internal problems and a difficult phase.
For Khumalo, celebrating a win against a team in crisis lacks merit. He urged other clubs to focus on their own growth. He wants to see teams face a full-strength Sundowns and succeed.
The Impact on South African Football
Khumalo highlighted Sundowns’ importance to the local game. The club has won eight consecutive titles and produces talent for the national team.
He maintains that a strong Sundowns makes the PSL more exciting. To him, the current situation is merely a “football phase.” He hopes the Brazilians overcome their issues soon to restore the league’s standard.
According to kickoff.com, Khumalo will only “take his hat off” when a team beats Sundowns without the aid of a crisis.
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