24 May 2025 | 15:00
AmaZulu FC welcome Orlando Pirates to the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, 24 May 2025, for a crucial DStv Premiership clash scheduled to kick off at 14:00 (SAST). With just one round of fixtures remaining after this weekend, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Pirates are still in the race for the league title and AmaZulu will be determined to lock in a top-half finish. Expect a tactical and tense encounter as both sides push for three valuable points.
AmaZulu FC come into this game in sixth place on the table with 34 points from 30 matches (W10 D4 L16). Their most recent outing ended in a 1-1 draw with Polokwane City, where Arthur Zwane’s side struggled to find rhythm going forward but showed decent shape defensively. However, inconsistency remains their Achilles heel. In their last five matches across all competitions, AmaZulu have registered 2 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses — scoring six goals and conceding eight in that period.
At home, Usuthu have had mixed fortunes with a record of 6 wins, 2 draws, and 5 losses. While Zwane’s possession-based football can look aesthetically pleasing, his team has struggled to convert control into goals, evidenced by a modest tally of 28 goals scored this season. With 33 conceded, their negative goal difference (-5) is a clear concern as they prepare to face one of the league’s most lethal sides.
Orlando Pirates, meanwhile, are flying high. The Buccaneers sit second on the log with 56 points (W18 D2 L10) and are pushing hard to finish as high as possible, potentially eyeing the title depending on results elsewhere. Under the guidance of Mandla Ncikazi, Pirates have been clinical and composed, racking up 4 wins and 1 draw in their last five matches. They’ve scored nine goals and conceded just one in that period — a clear indication of their balance between attacking threat and defensive resilience.
Their most recent result was a gritty 1-0 win over SuperSport United, a performance that showcased their ability to grind out results when needed. Pirates’ away form has been solid too, boasting 8 wins, 1 draw, and 3 losses on the road. With a goal difference of +22 (40 goals scored, 18 conceded), they’re one of the most complete sides in the league right now.
Historically, Orlando Pirates have enjoyed the upper hand in this fixture. In their last five meetings with AmaZulu: Orlando Pirates have won 3, with 2 draws and AmaZulu failing to register a single victory. Their most recent meeting ended in a 2-1 victory for Pirates — further emphasizing their dominance over AmaZulu in recent years. This trend is expected to continue, especially given the form both sides are currently in.
Main Tip – Orlando Pirates to Win
Given Pirates’ imperious form and superior head-to-head record, backing them for the win offers good value. Their defensive structure, attacking sharpness, and away form make them strong favorites to secure all three points.
Alternative Tip – Both Teams to Score: No
Pirates have kept four clean sheets in their last five matches, and with AmaZulu’s lack of firepower up front, we don’t see both teams finding the net here. This market presents a solid option for bettors looking for a slightly safer wager.
AmaZulu may have home advantage, but they face a mammoth challenge against a well-drilled Orlando Pirates side. With league positioning and possible continental qualification on the line, the Buccaneers are likely to approach this match with high intensity and professionalism. Expect a disciplined performance from Pirates as they aim to continue their unbeaten run and keep pressure on the league leaders.
Predicted Scoreline: AmaZulu FC 0-2 Orlando Pirates