After Orlando Pirates dropped points for the second game in three matches, it has become evident that they will need something special to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns for the DStv Premiership this season.
Pirates were considered favourites once again to challenge Sundowns for the league title but their 1-1 draw with Chippa United on Tuesday ensured that they are already five points behind leaders, the Brazilians.
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The Tshwane giants have won all their three league matches so far, so what gives them a considerable edge over Pirates once again?
Masandawana, despite their dominance, have went out of their way to sign players who can raise their level from last season and make them unpredictable.
The signings of Lucas Ribeiro Costa and Thapelo Maseko in particular, have already raised their level while the additions of the likes of Lesiba Nku and Bathusi Aubaas have increased competition in the squad, with Junior Mendieta having the potential to also make a difference.
In comparison, the Buccaneers have only so far integrated one new signing, Patrick Maswanganyi in the line-up and there are no other elements that make them different from last season.
Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye says the Sea Robbers can only aim for second spot in the standings, because they don't have the same quality signings as Sundowns, that can take their game to another level.
"I said number two (on the log) I can give them but you can't compete with Sundowns. The quality is different with players firstly and the way Sundowns plays, even if you score against them, they are very arrogant with their philosophy," Khanye said on iDiski TV.
"And they have signed players who arrived and lifted up (the team). Thapelo Maseko, Nku scored two (against Golden Arrows), they've got Lucas Ribeiro, who has scored two goals already."
"And when you look at Pirates' players, there's this youngster (Relebohile Mofokeng), he's exciting, Maswanganyi knows football, make no mistake but when Maswanganyi and this boy are off, who can you bring?"
Pirates' other notable signings include Lesedi Kapinga, who left Sundowns as surplus to the requirements (yet to feature), Katlego Otladisa and Karim Kimvuidi who has a lot of potential. It remains to be seen if they can raise the team's level.
The Soweto giants can also pin their hopes on the return from injuries of the likes of Thembinkosi Lorch and Kermit Erasmus.
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