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Cape Town - Former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper John Tlale has backed the Brazilians to defend their Absa Premiership title, especially after they were knocked out of the CAF Champions League on Saturday.
Sundowns were eliminated from the continental tournament in the semi-final after a 0-0 draw at home against Wydad Casablanca saw them go out 2-1 on aggregate.
Their focus will now switch to domestic duties as they know that they just need to win their final two games - against Golden Arrows on Tuesday and Free State Stars on Saturday - and they will retain the PSL trophy.
Tlale feels Masandawana will be determined not to end the season empty handed.
In quotes published on Goal, Tlale said: "I think Sundowns will win it especially after losing to Wydad, they will want to redeem themselves and focus on the league because it's their only opportunity to win a trophy this season.
"Sundowns can collect six points out of the two remaining games and win the league. They are out of the CAF Champions League and they will want to go all out now."
Pirates opened the door for Sundowns in the title race as they could only play to a 2-2 draw against Cape Town City at the Athlone Stadium.
Tlale said about his other former club, who have one game of the season remaining: "I think Orlando Pirates have made life difficult for themselves after their draw against City.
"They dropped two vital points and they know they should have won the game."
