Carling Knockout: Mbokazi’s screamer advances Orlando Pirates

Mbekezile Mbokazi’s incredible strike from distance was the difference as Orlando Pirates began their Carling Knockout Cup campaign with a 1-0 win over Siwelele FC on Saturday.

After winning the ball in midfield, Mbokazi advanced forward before uncorking a swerving effort from forty yards out that left Siwelele keeper Samukelo Xulu rooted to the spot as the ball nestled into the top corner.

It looked like it was going to be a routine day at the office when Pirates won a penalty kick within the opening five minutes. Evidence Makgopa was tripped up in the box but then put his spot kick off the post to keep the match scoreless.

The teams proceeded to exchange opportunities for the remainder of the first half with desperate defending from Siwelele preserving the clean sheet before Grant Margeman launched a low effort from distance that did not miss by much on the other end.

Despite looking vulnerable on the counter-attack at times, Mbokazi produced the crucial moment of magic in the 87th minute with his thunderous strike to advance Pirates to the quarterfinals.

In the other early first round match, Orbit College and TS Galaxy are locked at 0-0 in extra time at the time of publication.