Sunday | March 16, 2025
Relebogile Mofokeng’s double quick strikes helped Orlando Pirates Football Club overcome Mamelodi Sundowns FC at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg on Sunday.
Just four (4) minutes into the Betway Premiership League match, Mofokeng tapped in a well-laid cross in the back of the net. Pirates were ahead by 1-0 at home.
Hardly a minute later, Mofokeng hit back with a sumptuous curler that left Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams arms scrambling on the turf.
With 2-0 in the lead, the Buccaneers were in the pounding seat. Sundowns went into their usual element of possession football in search of calling back in the game.
It was only in the 66th minute when Khuliso Mudau sneaked in from nowhere to half the deficit and make the scoreline 2-1.
From now on, the Brazilians [Sundowns] had their tails up and sensed that they could get an equalizer. They foraged toward the second but elusive goal.
Pirates hung on to their lead and managed to fend off the barrage of offensive barrage of play from their opponents.
The match ended with Orlando Pirates securing a rare victory, collecting maximum points to take their points 43 after 19 games.
Mamelodi Sundowns are still 58 points ahead in 23 matches. Hence, the gap has narrowed to 15 points between them and second-placed Pirates.
With this win, the Buccaneers will feel emboldened and will put up a brave fight to chase the title all the way to the end as their head coach Jose Riveiro hinted on Thursday’s pre-match media briefing.
For Sundowns though, it is back to the drawing board to assess how they conceded two quick goals in two minutes and surrender the possible three points on offer on Sunday afternoon.
Sunday, Mar. 16 Betway Premiership Fixtures:
Richards Bay FC 2-0 Kaizer Chiefs FC
Sekhukhune United FC 1-2 Stellenbosch FC
Saturday, Mar. 15 Betway Premiership Results:
Magesi FC 1-0 Golden Arrows FCCape Town City FC 0-1 Marumo Gallants
Chippa United FC 2.-0 Polokwane City FC
Friday, Mar. 14 Betway Premiership Results:
AmaZulu FC 1-2 TS Galaxy FC
Royal AM FC vs SuperSport United FC – Postponed