Orlando Pirates vs Baroka FC | Nedbank Cup Quarterfinal Spot
By Sello Masilo
Orlando Pirates showcased their dominance over second-division Baroka FC, securing a 3-1 victory at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, 15 February 2025, to advance to the Nedbank Cup quarterfinals.
The Buccaneers, aiming for a third consecutive Nedbank Cup title—a feat they last achieved between 1973 and 1975—demonstrated their intent early in the match. Baroka FC, currently eighth in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, struggled to find their footing and have yet to record a win against Pirates in fourteen encounters across all competitions.
Match Overview
The match commenced with Orlando Pirates asserting control, maintaining possession and pressing high up the pitch. Baroka FC, despite their defensive setup, found it challenging to contain the Buccaneers’ relentless attacks.
In the 29th minute, Deon Hotto delivered a precise cross into the box, allowing Tshegofatso Mabasa to tap the ball into the net, marking the opening goal. The home crowd erupted in celebration as Pirates took a deserved lead.
As the first half drew to a close, Pirates intensified their efforts. In stoppage time, a swift passing sequence culminated in Patrick Maswanganyi providing a low cross to Mabasa, who calmly slotted home his second goal, giving Pirates a 2-0 advantage at halftime.
Second Half Highlights
Baroka FC made strategic substitutions early in the second half, introducing fresh legs in an attempt to shift the momentum. However, Pirates continued to dominate proceedings.
In the 52nd minute, substitute Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo unleashed a powerful long-range shot that rattled the crossbar, narrowly missing the target. The Buccaneers’ persistence paid off in the 63rd minute when Maswanganyi once again set up Mabasa, who completed his hat-trick with a clinical finish. This marked Mabasa’s second hat-trick of the season, further solidifying his reputation as a prolific striker.
Baroka FC managed to pull one back in the 75th minute. Awarded a free kick at the edge of the box, Sydney Malivha curled a shot past Pirates’ goalkeeper Sipho Chaine into the bottom left corner, offering a glimmer of hope for the visitors.
Shortly thereafter, Baroka nearly reduced the deficit further. A defensive mishap saw Tapelo Xoki’s clearance ricochet off his own face, landing fortuitously for Kabelo Kgositsile, who, unfortunately for Baroka, blasted his effort over the crossbar.
Post-Match Reactions
Pirates’ head coach, José Riveiro, expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, highlighting their offensive prowess and defensive solidity. “Our objective was to dominate the game and secure our spot in the quarterfinals. The players executed the game plan effectively, and Mabasa’s hat-trick was a testament to our attacking strength,” Riveiro commented.
Baroka FC’s caretaker coach, Foster Hlongwane, acknowledged the challenges faced but remained optimistic about his team’s potential. “Facing a top-tier team like Pirates is always demanding. While the result wasn’t in our favor, there were moments where we showed resilience. We’ll analyze our performance and focus on upcoming fixtures,” Hlongwane stated.
Looking Ahead
Orlando Pirates will have a brief respite before returning to league action. They are set to face Golden Arrows away from home on Wednesday, 19 February, in a Betway Premiership fixture. This match presents an opportunity for Pirates to maintain their momentum and continue their pursuit of domestic success.
Baroka FC, on the other hand, will shift their focus back to the Motsepe Foundation Championship. They are scheduled to clash with league leaders Durban City on Saturday, 22 February. This encounter will be crucial for Baroka as they aim to improve their standings and build confidence for the remainder of the season.
Match Statistics
• Final Score: Orlando Pirates 3-1 Baroka FC
• Goals:
• Orlando Pirates: Tshegofatso Mabasa (29’, 45+1’, 63’)
• Baroka FC: Sydney Malivha (75’)
• Attendance: Approximately 30,000 spectators
• Venue: Orlando Stadium, Soweto
Team Line-ups
Orlando Pirates: Chaine; Van Rooyen, Xoki (Maela 67’), Sibisi, Mako; Dlamini (Rasebotja 81’), Makhaula (Ndlondlo 46’), Mofokeng (Kimvuidi 67’); Maswanganyi, Hotto, Mabasa (Makgopa 81’)
Baroka FC: Jacobs; Mashiloane, Nhlabathi (Mabiliso 46’), Shaku, Gebhardt; Phalane, Combi (Selemela 54’), Sikhosana (Ndhlovu 71’); Kgosietsile, Mogale, Sniper (Malivha 54’)
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