It’s been four years since Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance was threatened but this season might just bring the drama.

Only a handful of teams in world soccer have seen domestic success comparable to that of the Brazilians, such Manchester City and Bayern Munich.

In addition to their nine Betway Premiership victories in the previous 11 years and their current seven-game winning streak, Sundowns has defeated the next best team by a minimum of 16 points ever since Kaizer Chiefs fell by a mere two points in the 2019–20 season.

Mamelodi Sundowns brought back to Earth

They’ve been in a league of their own for years, led by coach Rulani Mokwena; (until recently) triumph appeared certain.

After Sundowns lost both legs of the MTN8 semifinal against Stellenbosch FC more than a month ago, competitors’ confidence increased.

Many wondered, “Could it be the year they fall from grace?” in response to this.

Amakhosi and the Buccaneers sincerely hope so.

Are Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs playing at their peak again?

Both teams are playing at full capacity after three league games, reliving the glory days when the trophy alternated between the Soweto stadiums.

Ranga Chivaviro’s audacious burst through the defense in the ninth minute gave Chiefs a goal in spite of their 2-1 loss to Mamelodi Sundowns on September 28.

Shabalala occasionally ran amok while Castillo kept the middle balanced, exhibiting a level of team cohesion that had not been seen in years.

Their performance was different from a year ago; they weren’t there to participate; they were there to win, even if they lost to the defending champs.

In the end, Sundowns prevailed thanks to a contentious Iqraam Rayners goal, but the Chiefs supporters felt proud.

Many were curious about the Amakhosi team that will play this season after they placed tenth the previous one.

With his aggressive strategies and forward-thinking play, recently hired Nasreddine Nabi has silenced the critics, leading many to wonder if this might be their year.

A day later, Kabelo Dlamini scored an inch-perfect free kick off the bench at King Zwelithini Stadium of Richards Bay FC, giving the Buccaneers three wins in a row and moving them to second place on the log, level with Sundowns in points.

They also have exceptional talent, ranging from Evidence Makgopa to Monnapule Saleng. Can they compete with the Brazilians on an equal footing?

Time will tell.

There are many reasons to be thrilled about the league’s comeback, which is expected to be the most competitive championship in years, since it takes a three-week sabbatical owing to the international break.