Ernst Middendorp: Orlando Pirates need better infrastructure to match Sundowns

The former coach was asked whether Pirates had closed the gap on Sundowns in terms of squad strength and performances on the field.

While acknowledging the quality within the Pirates squad, Middendorp pointed to infrastructure as a factor that could make the difference.

He argued that the Buccaneers would be a superior club if they had a dedicated base comparable to Sundowns' Chloorkop headquarters. Kaizer Chiefs' Village in Naturena was also highlighted as an example of the type of facility Pirates currently lack.

"Orlando Pirates are definitely on a good path towards reaching Mamelodi Sundowns' level in terms of the overall infrastructure and what the club has established over the past couple of years," Middendorp told Kickoff.

"A great deal is happening behind the scenes, including recruitment, the development of an identity, progress in the development side, what the club achieved in the DDC last year, and changes in the coaching department,

"I think Orlando Pirates are currently the closest to Sundowns. They need to focus more on infrastructure and establish their own campus.

"That is something Pirates definitely need in order to compete nationally and internationally at the level of a team like Sundowns."

Pirates do not own a dedicated club village, instead operating through rented facilities and municipal agreements around Johannesburg.

Their training sessions take place at Rand Stadium, which belongs to the City of Johannesburg, while their corporate offices are leased in Houghton.

The Buccaneers also stage their home fixtures at Orlando Stadium, another municipal facility commercially known as the Orlando Amstel Arena.