Orlando Pirates etched their name in SA football history by securing their third consecutive MTN8 title, defeating Stellenbosch FC 3-1 in a thrilling final at the packed Moses Mabhida Stadium.
This historic victory makes them the first PSL club to win the competition three times in a row, earning them the right to retain the trophy permanently.
Monnapule Saleng, Tshegofatso Mabasa, and Relebohile Mofokeng scored for the Soweto giants, while Lehlohonolo Mojela found the net for Stellenbosch.
Pirates made four changes from their last match’s line-up, with Nkosinathi Sibisi, Thabiso Monyane, Monnapule Saleng, and Tshegofatso Mabasa replacing Deano van Rooyen (cup-tied), Gilberto, Tshegofatso Mabasa, and Relebohile Mofokeng.
Saleng returned after missing the previous match against Richards Bay as he was nursing an injury he had sustained in a match against Polokwane City FC.
Meanwhile, Pirates had to do without their vice-captain Olisa Ndah who, just like Saleng, suffered a knock against Rise and Shine.
Stellies dropped Oscarine Masuluke, Chumani Butsaka, and Sanele Barns, bringing back Sage Stephens, Jayden Adams, and Ibraheem Jabaar.
The Sea Robbers had early exciting moments up-front as they were looking to catch the Cape Winelands side napping but couldn’t get the breakthrough to rattle an early goal.
EARLY LEAD FOR STEELIES COURTESY OF MOJELA
Stellies took the lead in the 12th minute when Lehlohonolo Mojela executed a breathtaking bicycle kick, converting a flick from De Jong after a throw-in from Thabo Moloisane.
Despite persistent efforts from the Gauteng side, Stellies remained resolute defensively and always posed a threat with their counterattacks.
Later in the first half, Stellies’ relentless pressure pinned Pirates back, making it difficult for them to break free and gain momentum. Pirates’ fortunes took a turn when Saleng pounced on the loose ball after Hotto’s free-kick was punched by Stephens.
The match reached the interval with a 1-1 scoreline on the board.
Early in the second stanza, Hotto came close to putting his side ahead when he hit the post, leaving Stephens standing.
Steve Barker made the first change for the Western Cape side, taking out Sihle Nduli, who had just received a yellow card. He replaced him with new signing Chumani Butsaka.
Riveiro also made three changes taking off Maela, Makgopa and Makhaula bringing on Relebohile Mofokeng, Tshegofatso Mabasa and Kabelo Dlamini. They added some spark to Pirates’ offensive as they continued seeking a leading goal.
MABASA AND MOFOKENG LATE GOALS SNATCHED VICTORY FOR PIRATES
Pirates secured a late, controversial victory when Tshegofatso Mabasa scored after referee Abongile Tom initially awarded a free-kick to Pirates but then allowed play to continue.
Three minutes later, Relebohile Mofokeng added a third goal to seal the win, giving Pirates their fifth trophy under coach Jose Riveiro.
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