Relebohile Mofokeng delivered a match-winning performance with a brilliant brace as Orlando Pirates stunned Mamelodi Sundowns 2-1 in a thrilling top-of-the-table encounter at FNB Stadium. The victory not only handed Pirates a vital three points but also reignited their hopes of a potential title challenge, cutting the gap to Sundowns to 15 points, with the Buccaneers holding four games in hand.
The win was especially sweet for Pirates, who were seeking revenge after suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat to Sundowns just over a month ago. It was a dream start for the hosts, who raced into a commanding 2-0 lead within the first five minutes of the match, thanks to two clinical finishes from Mofokeng.
The opening goal arrived after just two minutes, with Evidence Makgopa making a powerful run down the right wing. The striker broke free of the Sundowns defense and squared the ball perfectly to Mofokeng, who calmly slotted home from close range to give Pirates the early advantage.
The second came in the blink of an eye. Barely 70 seconds after the first, Sundowns’ defensive frailties were exposed again, as Mofokeng pounced on a loose ball at the edge of the box. His shot hit the inside of the post and nestled into the net, doubling the Pirates’ lead and leaving Sundowns shell-shocked.
The defending champions struggled to recover from the early setback but almost pulled one back in the 21st minute. A well-executed corner kick from Teboho Mokoena found Grant Kekana, whose header glanced off the far post, agonizingly close to bringing Sundowns into the game.
The visitors continued to press forward, with Lucas Ribeiro testing Pirates’ defense with a free-kick in the 30th minute that flew narrowly wide of the post. Minutes before the break, Peter Shalulile had an opportunity to reduce the deficit, but his volley from an Iqraam Rayners cross flew high over the bar.
Sundowns made a tactical change at the start of the second half, bringing on Arthur Sales in place of Shalulile. The Brazilians took control of possession but had to wait until the 66th minute for their breakthrough. Rayners delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, which Khuliso Mudau latched onto and finished coolly past Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, cutting the deficit to 2-1.
Despite Sundowns’ relentless pressure in the final stages of the match, Pirates stood firm defensively, denying their opponents the equalizer and securing a massive win.
This result sets up an exciting conclusion to the season, with Pirates having a chance to close the gap further. Sundowns will be back in action on April 5, hosting Stellenbosch FC, while Orlando Pirates will travel to Polokwane City the following day. With the title race heating up, the upcoming fixtures promise to deliver even more drama.
