As the winter chill creeps in, Orlando Pirates are radiating warmth on the football field, demonstrating their ‘red hot’ prowess just when it counts the most. In a thrilling encounter at a sold-out FNB Stadium on Saturday, Pirates secured a vital 2-1 victory over their rivals Kaizer Chiefs, thanks to the crucial interventions of youngsters Mohau Nkota and Relebohile Mofokeng.
This much-needed triumph comes after a challenging spell for Pirates, who had suffered back-to-back losses in the CAF Champions League and the Premiership. With the momentum now firmly on their side, the Sea Robbers are ready to face Chiefs again in the upcoming Nedbank Cup final scheduled for next Saturday in Durban.
The clash, as anticipated, produced fireworks on the pitch, igniting passion in both sets of supporters. Chiefs burst from the blocks, fuelled by the scent of impepho— a traditional incense that invoked a fervent atmosphere and a flurry of early attacks. Remarkably, they opened the scoring just three minutes into the match, with talisman Makabi Lilepo finding the net after capitalising on a cut-back from Dillan Solomons. This strike also marked Lilepo’s second goal in two games, making him the third Congolese player in recent history to score in such a high-stakes matchup, showcasing the rich lineage of talent flowing from the region.
Despite Chiefs’ promising start, an inability to double their lead proved vital. Gaston Sirino squandered a fantastic chance, and a penalty appeal was dismissed by referee Eugene Mdluli, much to the dismay of the Chiefs fans. As Chiefs attempted to assert control, Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro echoed the anxiousness of a father awaiting a newborn, pacing the touchline fervently.
Riveiro’s moment of relief came when striker Evidence Makgopa, having been afforded a chance through Nkota’s assist, equalised with a close-range strike, injecting newfound life into the Pirates camp. Although Chiefs initially struggled to respond, the momentum undeniably shifted.
As the game progressed, Pirates showcased a scintillating performance, dominating possession and pressing forward, even drawing a comparison with aircraft flying overhead—a testament to their relentless energy and drive. Despite their control, the teams went into the break level as Chiefs’ goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma made crucial saves, denying Tapelo Xoki and Makgopa from finding the net again.
With halftime adjustments in place, Pirates introduced Kabelo Dlamini, who wasted no time in making an impact, though his close-range shot soared high. However, it was Mofokeng who would ultimately seal the victory for Pirates. He deftly lobbed the ball to Deon Hotto, and following a brief hesitation from the Namibian, Mofokeng capitalised on the loose ball to slot home, securing a crucial three points for the team.
As the final whistle approached, Chiefs’ Bradley Cross received a second yellow card, leaving his side a man down. The match ended in disappointment for Amakhosi, who must regroup quickly as they face a grim reality in the Nedbank Cup—their last hope of breaking a decade-long trophy drought.
For Pirates, the victory not only lifts spirits but adds vital momentum as they head towards another high-stakes encounter against their fiercest rivals.