Orlando Pirates Assert Dominance Over Rivals Sundowns in Title Race
As the South African Premier League title race heats up after matchday 11, the fierce competition between Sundowns and Orlando Pirates continues at full speed.
In simultaneous matches, Sundowns narrowly edged AmaZulu 1-0 with a 90th-minute goal despite being down to 10 men, while Orlando Pirates showed no mercy to Marumo Gallants FC at home.
The Pirates took an early lead in the 1st minute through an own goal by Kenneth Nthatheni. However, in the 23rd minute, Gabadinho Mhango scored for the visitors after a well-organized attack, leveling the game at 1-1. The first half ended with this score, but Marumo Gallants had no idea what was about to hit them.
In the second half, Tshegofatso Mabasa stole the show with goals in the 47th and 53rd minutes, pushing the Pirates to a 3-1 lead. Daeno Van Rooyen added a fourth in the 59th minute, and Mabasa completed his hat-trick by converting a corner in the 64th minute, making it 5-1. Thalente Mbatha added a stunning long-range strike in the 70th minute to stretch the lead to 6-1.
Mbatha wasn’t done yet and scored another beautiful goal in the 82nd minute, bringing the score to 7-1. The Pirates capped off their spectacular performance in the 90th minute when Boitumelo Radiopane converted a penalty, sealing an 8-1 victory.
This dominant performance by Orlando Pirates has sent a strong message to their title rivals.
With ambitions in the CAF Champions League, the Pirates are also looking to strengthen their attacking line further by targeting 22-year-old Richards Bay striker Yanela Mbuthuma.
Given their attacking prowess in this match, fans are left wondering just how much stronger this forward line can get.