How Orlando Pirates Climbed to the Top of South African Football – IFFHS Reveals Surprising 2024/2025 Rankings

The International Federation of Football History & Statistics, or IFFHS, is a respected organization dedicated to documenting and analyzing football statistics worldwide.

Founded in 1984 and based in Zurich, Switzerland, the IFFHS compiles rankings for clubs, leagues, players, and referees every season, based on their performance and achievements.

Though not officially affiliated with FIFA, the IFFHS is recognized and cited by the global football community for its data and awards, including the prestigious World’s Best Player awards it introduced in 1988.

Each season, the IFFHS updates its club rankings, reflecting which teams have improved or declined based on their recent performances in domestic leagues, continental competitions, and other tournaments.

For the 2024/2025 season, the South African football landscape has seen a notable shakeup in these rankings.

Orlando Pirates, one of the country’s most storied clubs, have surged dramatically.

Pirates climbed from a lowly 302nd position last season to an impressive 143rd place this season.

This leap of 159 spots underscores the progress the Buccaneers made over the past year.

While Orlando Pirates did not secure multiple trophies as they had in previous seasons, their strong showing in the CAF Champions League—remaining unbeaten until their final elimination—helped boost their global standing.

The Pirates’ resurgence has allowed them to overtake the mighty Mamelodi Sundowns, who themselves improved from 205th to 181st place.

Sundowns had a mixed season, winning the domestic league and reaching the Champions League final, but also endured coaching changes and challenges along the way.

Despite not clinching the continental title, Sundowns’ steady performance earned them the runner-up spot among South African teams in the IFFHS rankings.

In third place nationally is Stellenbosch FC, ranked 289th globally.

The club has made commendable strides, especially considering their smaller budget and resources compared to Pirates and Sundowns.

Stellenbosch have focused on promoting young talent and maintaining competitive performances, which has helped them secure another consecutive season in the Premier Soccer League and continental competitions.

Interestingly, Stellenbosch operates more as a selling club, transferring several promising players to bigger South African teams like Pirates and Sundowns.

Yet, they continue to hold their own and remain in the conversation among the country’s top clubs.

In contrast, both Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns are known more as buying clubs, rarely selling their key players, which contributes to their sustained dominance.

One notable absence from the top rankings is Kaizer Chiefs, another South African giant.

Chiefs have struggled in recent seasons, failing to qualify for major continental competitions and finishing outside the top eight domestically.

This poor form has resulted in their exclusion from the IFFHS top 505 teams worldwide, a stark reminder of the challenges they face in reclaiming their former glory.

Kaizer Chiefs’ management will need to address these issues urgently if they hope to return to elite status in both South African and African football.

Looking ahead, the competition among South African clubs is intensifying.

Orlando Pirates’ impressive rise is a testament to their strategic improvements and determination.

Mamelodi Sundowns remain a formidable force with their experience and quality signings, while Stellenbosch continues to punch above their weight through smart youth development.

The IFFHS rankings provide an objective measure of where these clubs stand on the global stage, highlighting achievements and areas for growth.

For fans and analysts alike, these rankings offer valuable insight into the evolving dynamics of South African football.

As the new season unfolds, all eyes will be on Naturena, Loftus Versfeld, and Danie Craven Stadium to see if these clubs can build on their momentum or face new challenges.

Ultimately, the rise of Orlando Pirates in the IFFHS rankings signals a potential shift in power and renewed excitement for South African football supporters.

The Buccaneers’ climb from 302nd to 143rd place is not just a number—it reflects hard work, resilience, and the promise of more success to come.

Meanwhile, Sundowns and Stellenbosch will look to maintain and improve their positions, ensuring South Africa remains competitive on the continental and global football scene.

For Kaizer Chiefs, the message is clear: the road to recovery starts now, and the pressure is on to return to the top tier.

As the 2024/2025 season progresses, fans can expect thrilling battles and fierce competition among these top South African clubs.

Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis on the beautiful game in Africa and beyond.