In a showdown that had football fans on the edge of their seats, the Orlando Pirates pulled off a stunning comeback victory over their long-time rivals, Kaizer Chiefs.
With the Nedbank Cup final just around the corner, this victory couldn’t have come at a better time for the Bucs.
The drama unfolded on Saturday afternoon at the iconic FNB Stadium, where the Soweto Derby once again proved why it’s one of the most electrifying fixtures in South African football.
Chiefs Strike Early With Lightning Fast Opener
Kaizer Chiefs wasted no time grabbing control of the game.
Just two minutes in, Glody Lilepo linked up beautifully with Dillan Solomons, who whipped in a perfect cross.
Lilepo was ready, sliding the ball past a helpless Sipho Chaine to set off wild celebrations in the Chiefs’ end.
That early goal set the tone for a fast-paced, high-intensity contest with both teams throwing everything at each other from the start.
Pirates Regroup and Respond With a Brilliant Equalizer
But the Buccaneers weren’t going down without a fight. As the game neared the hour mark, they found their rhythm.
Mohau Nkota sliced through Chiefs’ backline with a superb pass, finding Evidence Makgopa in a dangerous position.
Makgopa, cool and composed, slotted the ball past Bruce Bvuma to bring the Pirates level.
Suddenly, it was game on, with everything to play for as halftime approached.
Mofokeng Delivers the Final Blow to Complete the Comeback
The second half was just as chaotic, with both teams pushing hard for the winner.
But it was Orlando Pirates’ rising star Relebohile Mofokeng who stepped up in the clutch.
In the 69th minute, Mofokeng hammered home the match-winner, sending Pirates fans into absolute delirium.
His goal capped off a stunning comeback and handed the Buccaneers all three points in the most dramatic fashion.
Pirates Gain Crucial Momentum Before Nedbank Cup Final
This win not only gave the Pirates bragging rights but also a massive confidence boost ahead of next weekend’s Nedbank Cup final at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Now sitting on 49 points, the Bucs have also closed the gap slightly on league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.
They’re now just nine points behind, with renewed hope and momentum on their side.
Chiefs Left Reeling as Top-Eight Dreams Fade
As for Kaizer Chiefs, the loss drops them to ninth in the standings, leaving their chances of qualifying for the 2025 MTN8 in serious jeopardy.
With only two league matches left, it’s crunch time.
Chiefs will need to bounce back quickly if they hope to secure a top-eight finish—and fast.
A Derby to Remember With More Fireworks to Come
This Soweto Derby had it all—early goals, tactical brilliance, last-minute drama, and a raucous atmosphere that reminded everyone why this rivalry is one of the fiercest in African football.
And the best part? We get to do it all again in the Nedbank Cup final.
One more chance for glory, redemption, and drama.
Quick Highlights From the Derby
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Chiefs hit first: Lilepo stunned Pirates with a goal inside the first two minutes.
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Makgopa equalizes: A brilliant through ball from Nkota changed the game.
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Mofokeng magic: He stepped up once again to seal the game for the Pirates.
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Momentum swings: Pirates head into the cup final on a high.
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Chiefs under pressure: Time is running out to salvage their season.
What’s Next for the Rivals?
All eyes now turn to the Nedbank Cup final—can the Chiefs get their revenge? Or will the Pirates lift another trophy and cap off their resurgence in style?
