As has been the trend for several seasons, Sundowns are dominating the league, poised to claim their seventh title and currently boasting a record-breaking 23-match unbeaten streak, the longest in PSL history.

In contrast, Orlando Pirates, vying with Stellenbosch for the coveted second spot, face fierce competition for a berth in next season's Caf Champions League. Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs are clinging to hope as they strive to secure a top-eight finish.

As the battle for points intensifies in the top half, in the relegation zone, Cape Town Spurs teeter on the edge of demotion to the National First Division, with Magesi FC eyeing their spot in the top flight.

With the season drawing to a close soon, GOAL examines the remaining stakes in the league.

A sinking ship

When you think of a rough return to the PSL, it's hard not to feel for Cape Town Spurs. They seemed poised for a decent comeback after being away from the top-fight limelight since their relegation in 2017/18, with a mix of young talent eager to prove themselves and seasoned veterans, hopes were high.

But sadly, they've fallen short, sitting dead last in the standings and locked in a tense battle with Richards Bay for 15th place and a shot at the promotion/relegation playoffs.

However, with just five matches left and five points separating the two clubs, Spurs need to win them all and hope luck swings their way with Richards Bay slipping up. But let's face it, things look pretty bleak for Ernst Middendorp's squad, having only clinched four wins out of 25 matches so far this season, but they would take some comfort knowing that Richards Bay have only won one game more, setting football lovers up for what is anticipated to be an interesting end to the season.

A shot to rub shoulders with the big boys

While Spurs battle it out in the PSL, there's a glimmer of hope for Magesi FC in the National First Division. Under the leadership of former PSL coach Clinton Larsen, they're edging closer to automatic promotion, leading the standings by four points over University of Pretoria.

Although they stumbled with a 2-0 loss to Maritzburg United over the weekend, AmaTuks' failure to capitalise on their slip-up by drawing 0-0 with lowly Venda in 15th place works in Magesi's favour. With just four league matches remaining, Magesi have everything to play for and could be the ones to fill Cape Town Spurs' shoes in the PSL.

Not out of the woods, yet!

As the teams go head-to-head for those coveted spots, Kaizer Chiefs is right in the thick of it. Just recently, they clinched a 2-1 victory over SuperSport United, their first win in six matches. It's like a weight lifted off their shoulders. However, currently sitting in eighth place on the log standings, the Glamour Boys still have some ground to cover to secure that top-eight finish, which is crucial for the club's reputation.

With just five matches left, interim coach Cavin Johnson has his work cut out for him. He's got to come up with some smart tactics to ensure Chiefs stay in the top half of the table and reach beyond that 40-point mark - a milestone they missed out on twice in the club's PSL history since 1996.

Battle of the titans

Amidst the intensity of the competition, there's a thrilling showdown brewing for that coveted Caf Champions League spot. Stellenbosch and Orlando Pirates, sitting snugly in second and third place, respectively, are going all out to secure their spot in next season’s continental spectacle.

The tension is palpable with just three points separating the two sides, and neither team showing any signs of backing down. For the underdogs Stellies this is a chance to etch their name in history by achieving their highest finish in the PSL and clinching their debut Caf Champions League berth. Meanwhile, Pirates are fueled by a burning desire to rectify their early exit from this season's competition, ousted in the preliminary round.

Currently, the Cape Winelands side holds the edge in terms of points, but the final stretch promises to be a true test of grit and determination, revealing who truly reigns supreme in this battle.

The fight for double glory

Watching Pirates and Stellenbosch go head-to-head in the PSL is riveting, especially since they're both in the semi-finals of the Nedbank Cup. Pirates are facing off against Chippa United, while Stellies are gearing up to take on Sundowns.

This is a crucial moment for both clubs as they aim for double-cup success this season. It's remarkable to see how far they've come, with the Sea Robbers already clinching the MTN8 title and Stellenbosch securing their first major cup win in the Carling Knockout Cup.

The intensity of this unexpected rivalry is gripping, and it's fascinating to witness the twists and turns of the season. Passionate local football fans are surely eagerly anticipating the outcome of this battle!

South Africa’s very own invincibles?

For more than a decade, Sundowns have ruled South African football with an iron grip. It's been a remarkable journey filled with countless trophies and records, yet one goal continues to tantalise: an undefeated league season.

In November 2023, the Tshwane giants triumphed in Caf's inaugural African Football League (AFL), and now, with the Nedbank Cup in sight, Rhulani Mokwena’s side will be eager to add more silverware to their collection.

Although their journey in the Caf Champions League ended in the semi-finals against Esperance, they will be determined to bounce back stronger.

With 23 victories already secured and seven league matches remaining for the team, Sundowns are steadily marching towards that elusive unbeaten record - an exciting time to be a Sundowns fan to witness history in the making!

Join the Discussion: What's on your PSL radar?

As the PSL season heads towards its climax, there's a lot to anticipate for local football enthusiasts! What matches, rivalries, or standout performances are you most excited about? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and let's get the conversation going!

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