Pirates level pegging with Sundowns after crucial Chippa win

Orlando Pirates secured a vital 2-0 victory against Chippa United at the Orlando Stadium on Tuesday evening, a result that propelled the Buccaneers level on points with Betway Premiership log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

The breakthrough came via Evidence Makgopa in the 74th minute, and the win was sealed by Oswin Appollis in added time, rewarding the home side’s persistent attacking pressure after a frustrating first half.

The opening 45 minutes saw a cagey affair despite Pirates making a lively start. Coach José Riveiro’s adjustments included Lebone Seema being drafted into the line-up, replacing Mbekile Mbokazi, who is reportedly in the United States for a potential move to Chicago Fire.

The Buccaneers quickly created openings, with Yanela Mbuthuma heading wide of the upright in the ninth minute, before goalkeeper Dumisani Msibi was forced into a sharp save to deny a powerful strike from Sipho Mbule moments later.

Chippa United, who entered the match on a six-game winless run, spent the majority of the half absorbing pressure. However, the visitors nearly snatched a shock lead against the run of play in the 26th minute when a defensive error from Sibisi allowed Eva Nga to break through. Fortunately for the hosts, the striker sent his effort over the bar.

Despite their porous defensive record—having conceded the second most goals in the league this season—Chippa’s backline held firm until the break, successfully neutralizing threats from Relebohile Mofokeng and Tshepang Moremi in the final third. The match entered halftime locked at 0-0.

Makgopa Breaks the Deadlock, Appollis Seals the Win For Pirates

The Buccaneers started the second half with increased urgency. Msibi was immediately called into action, denying quick successive chances from Deon Hotto and Yanela Mbuthuma.

As the half wore on, Pirates intensified their territorial dominance and chance creation. Midfielder Relebohile Mofokeng went close twice around the 70th minute mark; first failing to curl a set-piece effort on target, and then heading an Oswin Appollis cross over the bar. Tshepang Moremi and Appollis also threatened but failed to find the target.

The crucial first goal finally arrived in the 74th minute. Deon Hotto delivered the decisive assist, setting up Evidence Makgopa who finished expertly from very close range into the top right corner.

Chippa responded by pushing for an equalizer, forcing Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine into action. Chaine was pivotal, saving Asanele Bonani’s central shot in the 77th minute, and again in the 80th minute to deny Sirgio Kammies’ effort from outside the box.

Pirates sought to kill off the game, with substitute Kabelo Dlamini narrowly missing the target with a direct free kick in the 85th minute, and again missing wide in added time.

However, the win was conclusively sealed in the 94th minute when Oswin Appollis fired a right-footed shot from the left side of the box into the top right corner. The goal was assisted by Kabelo Dlamini following a corner, confirming the 2-0 scoreline.

The victory sees Orlando Pirates draw level with Mamelodi Sundowns on 25 points. Pirates now boast a strong record of eight wins, one draw, and two defeats from their 11 league matches played, though Sundowns hold the advantage having played one game more.