Another one: Orlando Pirates conquer MTN 8 once again

For the fourth consecutive season, Orlando Pirates are the champions of South Africa’s MTN 8 after running away in extra time for a 3-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC on Saturday in Mpumalanga.

After looking like the more dangerous team in the opening ninety minutes, the Bucs quickly asserted their dominance in extra time when substitute Tshepang Moremi opened the scoring before two minutes had elapsed. A perfect cross from fellow substitute Oswin Appollis left Moremi with a routine finish and Stellenbosch’s resistance was broken.

The flood gates proceeded to open up for Pirates to confirm victory. When Moremi crossed for yet another substitute, Tshegofatso Mabasa, to tap in for an easy finish, another trophy was well in the grasp of the Sea Robbers.

Appollis and Moremi connected once again to add insult to injury for Stellies. In the second half of extra time, Bafana Bafana midfielder Appollis had plenty of space to drive into and produce another defense-splitting pass for Moremi to complete his brace and confirm a third goal in all competitions this season for the former AmaZulu man.

Pirates have now won four consecutive MTN 8’s and five of the last six editions, only being interrupted by Mamelodi Sundowns’ triumph in 2021.

The Bucs return to league action with a Betway Premiership clash against Magesi FC on Wednesday before facing Lesotho’s Lioli FC in the preliminary stages of the CAF Champions League next Saturday. Stellenbosch face AmaZulu on Wednesday in their return to league play.

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