Pirates leapfrog Sundowns at the top after Durban City victory

Orlando Pirates claimed the top spot in the Betway Premiership following a comfortable 2-0 victory over 10-man Durban City FC at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.

The win, secured on the road in Durban, puts the Buccaneers three points clear at the league summit. Both Pirates and second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns have now played 12 league games.

Makgopa Strikes Again, Mofokeng Shines For Pirates

The opening goal arrived in the 23rd minute courtesy of a composed finish from Evidence Makgopa. He calmly slotted home after receiving a precise assist from the impressive youngster, Relebohile Mofokeng, who was handed a start by coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

Makgopa, who continues to push for a Bafana Bafana AFCON return, netted his second goal in successive matches. The striker now boasts four goals and three assists across 16 appearances in all competitions this season.

Durban City goalkeeper Darren Keet was kept busy throughout the second half, notably stretching to deny a low effort from Tshepang Moremi early on.

Maswanganyi Seals the Points

After a spell of threatening attacks from the home side in the early stages, Pirates took control, though a second goal proved elusive until the final quarter.

Midfielder Patrick Maswanganyi sealed the 2-0 scoreline 13 minutes from time, linking up neatly with substitute Oswin Appollis to connect a slick feed and double Pirates’ advantage.

In a moment of late drama, Durban City finished the contest with 10 men after captain Siphamandla Ncanana was shown a red card in stoppage time.

Durban City, who struggled to capitalise on early chances, dropped to eighth position on the log after completing their 14th league fixture.