The highly anticipated Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs in the Betway Premiership ended in dramatic fashion, with the Buccaneers securing a 1-0 victory thanks to a late penalty kick from Patrick Maswanganyi. The win allowed Orlando Pirates to close the gap to league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns to just three points.
The match, played at FNB Stadium, seemed destined to end in a draw until Maswanganyi calmly converted the contentious penalty deep into injury time. The decision to award the penalty sparked controversy, but the Pirates capitalized on the opportunity to claim all three points.
Despite playing three more games than the top two teams, Kaizer Chiefs find themselves in fifth place, trailing their rivals by nine points after suffering their sixth loss in 15 league matches.
The game started with an early chance for Chiefs in the second minute, as Pule Mmodi raced through on goal but was denied by a crucial challenge from Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine. Pirates had their own opportunities, with Relebohile Mofokeng and Tshegofatso Mabasa coming close to scoring in the first half.
As the game remained deadlocked at 0-0, both teams made strategic substitutions in the second half to try and break the stalemate. The Buccaneers had several chances to score, with Mabasa and Mofokeng testing Chiefs’ goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma.
In the dying minutes of the game, Pirates pushed forward in search of a winner. Deon Hotto and Makhehlene Makhaula both came close to scoring before Mofokeng was fouled in the box, leading to the decisive penalty kick from Maswanganyi.
The victory in the Soweto Derby was a significant result for Orlando Pirates, while Kaizer Chiefs will look to bounce back when they face AmaZulu in their next fixture. The Pirates, on the other hand, will travel to Sekhukhune United as they continue their pursuit of the league title.
Overall, the match was a thrilling encounter that showcased the intensity and competitiveness of South African football. Fans can look forward to more exciting action as the Betway Premiership season unfolds.
