Orlando Pirates won the Betway Premiership, MTN8, and Carling Knockout to complete a historic treble this season [1], [2].
The achievement marks a return to dominance for one of South Africa's most storied clubs. By securing these titles, the team has boosted its financial standing and improved the prospects for its players within the national team [1], [5].
Under the leadership of head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, the club ended a 14-year league title drought [1]. This victory represents the first league title for the Pirates since the 2011/12 season [1].
The season's success was built on a series of high-stakes victories. The club secured the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout before completing the treble with the Betway Premiership title [2]. Some reports indicate the Nedbank Cup was also part of this success, which would make Orlando Pirates the first club in Premier Soccer League history to achieve a treble three times [1].
This run of success comes after years of frustration in the league. The 14-year gap between titles created a period of instability that the current squad has now overcome through a disciplined tactical approach under Ouaddou [1].
The club's dominance in the 2025/26 season establishes a new benchmark for the PSL. With three major trophies in a single campaign, the Pirates have moved beyond their previous drought to reclaim their status as the premier force in South African football [1], [3].
“Orlando Pirates ended a 14-year league title drought.”
The completion of the treble signifies a shift in the power dynamics of the South African Premier Soccer League. By ending a drought that lasted since 2012, Orlando Pirates have not only restored their competitive prestige but have also created a financial windfall that allows for sustainable investment in talent. This success puts pressure on other top-tier clubs to modernize their coaching and recruitment to compete with the new standard set by Abdeslam Ouaddou.
