Sekhukhune United salvaged a 2-1 win over Orlando Pirates in the DStv Premiership tie at New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday evening.
Below are some of the talking points from this showdown between the Buccaneers and Babina Noko.
THABISO SESANE DEBUT FOR ORLANDO PIRATES
Thabiso Sesane finally made his season debut for the Sea Robbers against Sekhukhune. The centre-back showed a glimpse of a good display and played 45 minutes. Sesane was replaced by Sandile Mthethwa in the second half.
The 23-year-old will be hopping to get more playing time moving forward under the guidance of Jose Riveiro.
ORLANDO PIRATES’ BAFANA BAFANA STARS RESTED
The defensive duo of Nkosinathi Sibisi and Tapelo Xoki and the midfield pair of Thabang Monare and Patrick Maswanganyi were rested for this tie. The four players were part of the Bafana Bafana squad in the inaugural FIFA Series held in Algeria.
Meanwhile, Sekhukhune did not rest their stars from the Bafana squad as we saw Elias Mokwana and Nyiko Mobbie starting with the match.
THABISO LEBITSO RETURNS
Coach Jose Riveiro received a boast as midfielder Thabiso Lebitso returned to action after serving his one-match suspension.
VUSIMUZI MNCUBE BREAKS THE DEADLOCK
Vusimuzi Mncube broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute of the game to put Sekhukhune in front.
former Pirates star, Linda Mntambo added to the scoreline for Babina Noko in the 51st minute.
However, the Soweto giants managed to score a goal five minutes after the restart through Tshegofatso Mabasa, who returned to the club from his loan deal at Moroka Swallows.
HEAD-TO-HEAD
Pirates boast a good record against Sekhukhune, as they currently have five wins in the last eight encounters across all competitions.
Six of the eight clashes between the two teams have come in the league, where Pirates boast three victories.
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