Nedbank Cup
By Sello Masilo
In a thrilling Nedbank Cup Last 32 encounter at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday afternoon, Orlando Pirates secured a 3-1 victory against Richards Bay, keeping their title defence alive. The Buccaneers will now shift their focus to the highly anticipated Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs on 1 February in a Betway Premiership showdown.
Match Overview
From the outset, Pirates dominated possession, displaying cohesive play in the opposition’s half. The breakthrough came in the 22nd minute when Relebohile Mofokeng assisted Patrick Maswanganyi, who unleashed a powerful long-range shot that beat goalkeeper Ian Otieno, giving Pirates a 1-0 lead.
Just four minutes later, Maswanganyi doubled the advantage. Once again, Mofokeng was the provider, setting up Maswanganyi for a composed finish, making it 2-0 in favour of the visitors at halftime.
Richards Bay emerged with renewed vigour after the break. Their efforts paid off in the 47th minute when Yanela Mbuthuma capitalised on a defensive lapse, slotting the ball past goalkeeper Melusi Buthelezi to reduce the deficit to 2-1.
In response, Pirates’ coach Jose Riveiro introduced Kabelo Dlamini in the 75th minute. The substitution proved effective, as Dlamini set up Tshegofatso Mabasa, who sealed the victory with a low shot in stoppage time, concluding the match at 3-1.
Team Line-ups
Richards Bay: Otieno, S Dube (Dlamini 46’), Ndaba, Mabua, Mcineka, Mthethwa, Gumede (Ndelu 83’), Mhlongo (Radebe 83’), Mbuthuma, Mohlamme (Conco 65’), Ntsundwana (Kutumela 46’).
Orlando Pirates: Buthelezi, Sesane, Xoki (Maela 75’), Van Rooyen (Ndlozi 50’), Hotto, Mbatha (Dlamini 75’), Makhaula, Maswanganyi, Nkota (Shandu 65’), Mofokeng, Mabasa.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, Orlando Pirates advance to the Nedbank Cup Round of 16. Their attention now turns to the Betway Premiership, where they are set to face arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby on 1 February. This match is highly anticipated by fans and is expected to be a significant fixture in the league calendar.
Richards Bay, having concluded their Nedbank Cup journey, will aim to rebound in their upcoming league fixture against Magesi FC on 31 January. The team will be eager to return to winning ways and improve their standing in the league.
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