Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou felt his side should have come away with all three points from Saturday’s Betway Premiership ‘classico’ against champions Mamelodi Sundowns, which ended in a 1-1 stalemate at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.

Pirates fought back after conceding a 20th minute goal to Peter Shalulile to end Sundowns’ 18-match winning streak at home in the league.

Camren Dansin’s spectacular 35th minute equaliser left Pirates still three points behind Sundowns in the league standings but with two games in hand.

“We started slowly, Sundowns put us in trouble in terms of building, they managed to find the free player in the middle,” said Ouaddou in his synopsis of the game.

”We had a problem with (Marcelo) Allende, Nuno Santos, (Bathusi) Aubaas in the middle, because they were trying to overload, which we had prepared for, but I thought that we were not aggressive enough to prevent them from the building.

“But we made some changes in order to be more dangerous in the transitions. And it worked because we created the most chances and I was so happy about the second half, the way that we played and how we respected the game plan.

“To be honest, I think it's a game that we should have won regarding the number of chances that we have created. And today, I think, to be honest, it should be a victory for Orlando Pirates,” Ouaddou said.

“But let's go home with this point. Let's not be too tough on our boys. They did well. And let's go to fight for the next games that we had in hand and let's go to take the lead of this league,” he added.

A third successive draw between Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates showed there was little to chose between the two sides this season, said the champions’ coach Miguel Cardoso.

Pirates came from behind for a third time this season to hold Sundowns to a 1-1 draw in their Betway Premiership clash at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.

The two sides also drew 1-1 in each of their MTN8 semifinals in August and look as if the are going to go head-to-head in a closely contested season.

“ I think the result is quite fair, considering what we saw, the more dominant Sundowns, and Pirates playing as we had seen from them in their previous matches,” said Cardoso after the game.

“Third match, third draw, same result. It means that the teams are very equal in the moment. They play differently, but they have their capacities and we'll have for sure a competition this season.

“I remember I predicted at the PSL launch event that this championship will have a different story,” added Cardoso.

Pirates been runners-up to Sundowns in the last three campaigns – 12 points behind last season in a 28-game campaign but a record-breaking 23 points adrift in 2024 and in 2023 Sundowns finished 16 points clear of the Buccaneers.

“It will be much more equal until the end,” Sundowns’ coach predicted of this season.

Cardoso admitted Saturday’s encounter would not go down as a classic.

“It was not the best football played by both teams, but these kinds of matches are like that. I think the match, basically, was what I predicted in terms of its pattern, played with a lot of emotion,” he added.

Chippa United’s woes in the Betway Premiership continued on Saturday evening when they were handed a 3-0 beating by AmaZulu FC at the Buffalo City Stadium.

The Chilli Boys suffered a third successive loss – and extended their winless run to six matches – across all competitions, after Usuthu were inspired to victory by a brace of goals from Hendrick Ekstein.

Chippa remained rooted to the foot of the Premiership log with just six points from 11 matches (three points from the safety of 14th place, currently occupied by Stellenbosch FC), while AmaZulu are fifth on 18 points from 10 matches – just four points off the pace of leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, having played a game less than the table toppers.

Chippa had an early chance to take the lead when they were awarded a soft penalty, but Goodman Mosele’s strike from the spot was well saved by AmaZulu goalkeeper Darren Johnson.

The hosts went on to dominate possession and territory for most of the first half, though they struggled to find a way through the visiting team’s defence.

Chippa’s patience had already begun to wane by the half-hour mark, when defender Idumba Fasika let fly from long range and forced a sharp save from Johnson to keep the score line blank.

AmaZulu then claimed the lead against the run of play in the 42nd minute, with Nkosikhona Radebe turning defence into attack down the right flank before squaring for Hendrick Ekstein, who scored with a composed side-footed finish for 1-0.

A goal up at the break, Usuthu needed just eight minutes of the second half to double their advantage. Substitute Tebogo Mashigo did great work to hold up the ball in the penalty area before picking out the late run of Athini Maqokolo, who drove to the goal mouth with three defenders around him before passing the ball beyond Stanley Nwabali for 2-0.

Nwabali really should have done more to apply pressure for the second goal, but he then made up for that with two excellent saves to deny Ekstein and Mashigo around the hour mark, keeping the Chilli Boys clinging to life in the match.

However, AmaZulu effectively ended the game as a contest when Ekstein scored from the penalty spot in the 66th minute. Maqokolo earned the spot kick with a burst of pace down the left side of the 18-yard area, drawing a clumsy foul from Harold Majadibodu.

The final quarter of the game saw Usuthu throttle down, defend their own box and control the game – with Chippa unable to fashion any clear chances to spark hopes of a comeback.

The teams will return to Betway Premiership action next midweek, with AmaZulu hosting Polokwane City, and Chippa United welcoming Magesi FC – both on the evening of Tuesday 4 November.

Chippa United 0

AmaZulu FC (1) 3 (Ekstein 42’ 66’ pen, Maqokolo 53’)

Chippa: Nwabali, Fasika, Seabi (Gamildien 90+3'), Majadibodu, Mfecane (Hlophe 64’), Modise, Mosele, Konqobe (Tshobeni 80’), Kammies, Ntsundwana (Figuareido 46’), Eva Nga (Matrose 64’)

AmaZulu: Johnson, Allan (Zungu 79’), Mthethwa, Maqokolo (Zikhali 85’), Radebe, Mbanjwa (Fielies 79’), Hlangabeza, Hanamub, Ekstein (Kambindu 79’), Ngcobo, Kutumela (Mashigo 40’)

Richards Bay took advantage of adverse weather conditions as they battled back from behind to clinch a 1-1 draw with Polokwane City at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.

Rise And Shine led 1-0 at the break courtesy of Mokibelo Ramabu's 31st-minute opener, but lightning caused a lengthy delay and the Natal Rich Boyz came out with renewed purpose in the second half.

Gabadinho Mhango eventually equalised from the penalty spot in the 86th minute to take Ronnie Gabriel's side three points clear of the bottom two in 12th place, with Polokwane leapfrogging Durban City into fifth position.

Both teams were targeting a return to winning ways, with City having been beaten 1-0 by Orlando Pirates on October 22, while Richards Bay suffered a 2-1 defeat against Orbit College five days prior.

The hosts just shaved the possession stakes in the first half and they made better use of the ball, creating more than double the amount of chances as did the Natal Rich Boyz.

 

Brian Bwire was called into action first through, when he turned Thabisa Ndelu's shot behind for a corner on 20 minutes following good work from Mhango to pick out the midfielder inside the box.

However, the breakthrough came at the other end 11 minutes later as Ramabu slotted home to make it two goals in three games for Rise And Shine.

The woodwork also came to Ian Otieno's rescue and the Limpopo outfit went into the interval one goal to the good.

The game was then delayed by lightning and it seemed to stymie City's momentum as the visitors started to create much more chances as the second half progressed.

Bwire was required to make two saves and Mfundo Thikazi went close with a strike that flashed over the crossbar on 77 minutes after Mhango and Knox Mutizwa linked up well to set him up.

Richards Bay were presented with a golden opportunity to restore parity when Lundi Mahala was brought down inside the box and Mhango kept his cool to convert the resulting penalty with four minutes left on the clock and earn his team a share of the spoils.

Polokwane City (1) 1 (Ramabu 31')

Richards Bay (0) 1 (Mhango 86' PEN)

Polokwane City: B. Bwire, T. Matuludi, M. Mvundlela, L. Nkaki, T. Nkwe, M. Kambala, M. Ramabu, N. Maphangule, B. Dlamini (R. Daniels 80'), S. Tshabalala (L. Mashiane 87'), M. Seketso (S. Kelepu 80').

Richards Bay: I. Otieno, L. Mabuya (H. Vilakazi 84'), S. Mcineka, S. Zulu, S. Mntungwa, K. Mutizwa, T. Zuke (L. Mahala 84'), T. Ndelu (N. Mbulelo 56'), L. Zikhali, M. Thikazi, G. Mhango (O. Nzimande 90').

Orbit College recorded back-to-back wins in the Betway Premiership for the first time after they ran out 3-1 victors over Magesi at Olympia Park on Saturday.

The clash in Rustenburg had it all, as Monnapule Saleng opened the scoring from the penalty spot on the stroke of halftime before Thuso Moleleki and Mbulelo Wagaba extended the Mswenko Boyz's lead in the second half.

Katlego Mkhabela was then given his marching orders on 64 minutes and Dikwena tsa Meetse took swift advantage when Edmore Chirambadare reduced the deficit six minutes later.

Pogiso Makhoye's side held on, though, to claim a precious three points as they climbed up to 11th place, four points clear of Magesi, who remain second from bottom in the standings.

Orbit College were looking to build on their 2-1 win over Richards Bay on October 17 which gave them some breathing space to the relegation zone, while John Maduka's side managed to arrest a two-game losing streak with a 2-1 success against TS Galaxy one day later.

The visitors dominated the possession in the first half and also had more attempts at goal, but they only tested Sabelo Nkomo on one occasion after hitting the target on the quarter-hour mark.

 

Moleleki was presented with a chance at the other end four minutes later, only to fire wayward and Saleng also missed the target after cutting inside on 41 minutes.

However, the Orlando Pirates loanee made amends soon afterwards when the hosts were awarded a penalty in added time and he beat Elvis Chipezeze from 12 yards out to register his second goal of the season.

Magesi put early pressure on the opposition after winning a corner in the opening minute of the second half, but it was the Mswenko Boyz who doubled their advantage on 52 minutes through Moleleki.

The midfielder then turned provider as he set up Wagaba nine minutes later to give the top-flight newcomers a three-goal cushion, although they suffered a setback moments later with the dismissal of Mkhabela for a second yellow card.

Dikwena tsa Meetse didn't take long to capitalise on the extra man after Edmore Chirambadare pulled one back on 70 minutes to set up a nervy finish to the game.

The home goal came under threat again a couple of minutes later, but Nkomo was on hand to make the save and ensure there would be no way back for the Limpopo outfit.

Orbit College (1) 3 (Saleng 45+1' PEN. Moleleki 52', Wagaba 61')

Magesi (0) 1 (Chirambadare 70')

Orbit College: S. Nkomo, K. Mkhabela, O. Mokgosi, R. Mphahlele, Y. Madiba, T. Moleleki (L. Lesako 63'), A. Batsi, G. Thibedi, L. Modimoeng (N. Ngiba 70'), M. Saleng (P. Tyongwana 80'), M. Wagaba (A. Lukhele 80').

Magesi: E. Chipezeze, T. Mashigo, T. Makgoga (D. Mofokeng 70'), L. Mokone, J. Mokone, L. Mtshali (T. Sibanyoni 59'), S. Darpoh (K. Mariba 89'), K. Mosadi (K. Mahlasela 71'), E. Chirambadare, W. Makhubu, M. Vandala (A. Seseane 71').

Orlando Pirates edged closer to Mamelodi Sundowns at the top of the Betway Premiership table thanks to Camren Dansin as the two sides drew 1-1 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on Saturday.

The 20-year-old opened his senior account with a beautiful strike to pull the Buccaneers level in just his second start for the club’s first team.

Sundowns stay at the top of the table with 22 points from 11 games, while Pirates moved level with Kaizer Chiefs on points but edge their rivals on goal difference to claim third place with 19 points.

Points and bragging rights shared at Loftus 🤝#SSDiski | #BetwayPrem pic.twitter.com/4bNUBYBay9

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) November 1, 2025

The Brazilians had to make do without Teboho Mokoena and Miguel Reisinho - who were serving suspensions - and Malibongwe Khoza, who is expected to return from an ankle injury soon.

Peter Shalulile kept his spot in the starting 11, while Iqraam Rayners came off the bench having not played since being withdrawn from the Bafana Bafana squad on 7 October due to medical reasons.

Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou opted to leave Bafana Bafana midfielders Patrick Maswanganyi, Thalente Mbatha and Sipho Mbule on the bench in favour of Sihle Nduli, Masindi Nemtajela and Dansin.

The visitors enjoyed the better of the chances in the opening stages, with Evidence Makgopa’s effort from the left of the box sailing narrowly over the bar in the 6th minute.

 

Sundowns had a chance to strike in the 14th minute as Aubrey Modiba found Shalulile open in the box. The striker could not get enough on his header to trouble Sipho Chaine in goal.

Shalulile found the back of the net four minutes later, handing the home side an early lead with his fifth goal of the season in all competitions. Arthur Sales squared the ball for the Namibian international, whose first effort was kept out by Chaine. However, the goalkeeper could not recover in time to block Shalulile’s second attempt, which crept past Seema on the goalline.

Pirates drew level in the 36th minute through Dansin, who bagged his first senior goal in spectacular fashion. Sundowns’ corner clearance fell to the 20-year-old at the edge of the area who hit it first time, producing a rocket of a volley which went in off of the underside of the crossbar.

The Buccaneers squandered a golden opportunity to take the lead in the 50th minute as Lebone Seema found himself one-on-one with Williams, having all the time in the world. The defender attempt to beat Williams at the near post but was denied.

Shalulile came close to a second goal in the 55th minute as Khuliso Mudau slipped him the ball in the box, but Sihle Nduli bravely stepped across to block his effort.

In the 73rd minute, Oswin Appollis broke on the counter after winning the ball in midfield. The winger picked out Tshepang Moremi, who fired a shot from just outsude the area but could not beat Williams.

Both teams are back in Betway Premiership action on Wednesday as Sundowns will return to Loftus to face TS Galaxy, while Pirates will travel to the King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium in Durban to face Lamotville Golden Arrows.

Mamelodi Sundowns (1) 1 (Shalulile 20’)

Orlando Pirates (1) 1 (Dansin 35’)

Mamelodi Sundowns: R. Williams, B. Aubaas (S. Mkhulise 79’), G. Kekana, K. Cupido, A. Modiba (F. Basadien 78’), M. Allende, K. Mudau, T. Matthews, N. Santos, A. Sales (J. Adams 57’), P. Shalulile (I. Rayners 78’)

Orlando Pirates: S. Chaine, L. Seema, M. Mbokazi, T. Lebitso, D. Hotto, S. Nduli, C. Dansin (P. Maswanganyi 60’), M. Nemtajela, O. Appollis (S. Kwayiba 87’) , T. Moremi, E. Makgopa (Y. Mbuthuma 60’)

Siwelele FC needed a late goal to secure a narrow 1-0 victory over Sekhukhune United in the Betway Premiership match, which was played at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium on Friday night.

The victory elevated Siwelele to the 12th spot in the league standings, having 11 points from 11 matches. Coach Lehlohonolo Seema's side will travel to Cape Town, where they are scheduled to lock horns with Stellenbosch FC in another league game on November 5.

Babina Noko, on the other hand, remained second in the standings, having accumulated 20 points from 10 matches. The Limpopo side will be determined to get their bid to win the league title back on track when they play host to Richards Bay on November 4.

Siwelele got off to a promising start and Siviwe Magidigidi fired the game's first shot on target - forcing goalkeeper Manuel Sapunga into making a smart save in the 10th minute. However, the two teams then struggled to keep their attempts at goal on target and the score was 0-0 during the halftime break.

 

With his side struggling upfront after the restart, Eric Tinkler decided to make a double substitution in the 63rd minute. The Sekhukhune head coach introduced the attack-minded duo of Ronaldo Maarman and Sphiwe Mahlangu as the visitors looked to break the deadlock.

However, it was the hosts who snatched a late winning goal with 16 minutes left on the clock. SuperSport United academy products combined to hand Siwelele a 1-0 win over Sekhukhune as Aphiwe Baliti set up Siviwe Magidigidi and the South Africa under-20 international netted his third goal of the season.

Siwelele 1 (Magidigidi 74')

Sekhukhune 0

Siwelele FC: Goss, Sanoka, Rapoo, Mfolozi, Gamphani (Saile 61'), Potsane (Baliti 61'), Makhele, Margeman (Zwane 80'), Moralo (Pule 68'), Mokhuoane, Magidigidi (Nurkovic 80')

Sekhukhune United: Sapunga, Ndlovu, Letlapa, Mkhize, Medupi, Mncube (Mahlangu 63'), Monare (Timm 82'), Mashiloane, Rammala (Maarman 63'), Grobler, Makgalwa

Kaizer Chiefs recorded their first win in five Betway Premiership outings after they struck at the death to beat Durban City 1-0 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday.

Flavio Silva stepped off the bench to head home in the 88th minute as the Glamour Boys halted a four-game winless run to move up to third place in the standings, one point ahead of arch-rivals Orlando Pirates, who face Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday, 1 November.

Off the bench and onto the scoresheet 😤✌️

Flavio Silva wins it for Kaizer Chiefs ⚡#BetwayPrem | #SSDiski | @McDonalds_SA pic.twitter.com/2yWx3fjP8x

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 31, 2025

Gavin Hunt's side have now suffered back-to-back defeats and they remain tied with Polokwane City (6th) and AmaZulu (7th) on 15 points in fifth position.

Both teams were looking to get back on the winning trail, with City having lost 1-0 to Usuthu on 18 October, while Chiefs had to settle for a 0-0 draw against Siwelele four days later.

Amakhosi bossed possession in the first half and had slightly more shots at goal, but they didn't really trouble Darren Keet.

The hosts threatened first when Mfanafuthi Mkhize controlled Kyle Jurgens's ball into the box and fired over on the half-volley in the 13th minute.

Mfundo Vilakazi then failed to hit the target from a free-kick on 21 minutes after he was fouled outside the area in a dangerous position and Joslin Kamatuka should perhaps have done better at the other end 13 minutes later as he sent a volley off target after pouncing on a loose ball.

It remained goalless at the break, but the Citizens started brightly in the second half in a bid to make the breakthrough, with Fezile Gcaba shooting wide at the back post on 52 minutes before Trevor Mokwena also failed to test Brandon Petersen from inside the box two minutes later following good work from Jurgens to set him up.

The Soweto giants continued to see far more of the ball and they went close to the opener on 71 minutes when Makabi Lilepo steered a header inches over the crossbar from Gaston Sirino's fine cross, although they survived a scare four minutes from time after City had a potential winner ruled out for offside.

The near-goal jolted them into action and substitute Silva scored at the other end just two minutes later with a header after getting on the end of another superb Sirino cross.

90 + 5’| #DUR 0 : 1 #CHI

Full time score: Durban City FC 0 : 1 Kaizer Chiefs (Da Silva 88’)

Betway Man of the Match: Sibongiseni Mthethwa#Amakhosi4Life #BetwayPrem #AlwaysHome pic.twitter.com/GzevSiMNLh

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) October 31, 2025

Durban City 0

Kaizer Chiefs (0) 1 (Silva 88')

Durban City: D. Keet, F. Gcaba, C. Nwoburuoke, M. Mkhize, T. Mashego, B. Mokwena (L. Koapeng 76'), A. Jodwana, K. Jurgens, T. Nodada (S. Magawana 83'), J. Kamatuka (H. Domingo 61'), S. Maseko (K. Maphathe 84').

Kaizer Chiefs: B. Petersen, D. Solomons (T. Monyane 46'), I. Miguel, A. McCarthy, B. Cross, N. Ngcobo (T. Cele 63'), S. Mthethwa, M. Vilakazi (P. Mmodi 46'), M. Shabalala, M. Lilepo (F. Silva 80'), E. Ighodaro (G. Sirino 68').

It may not look like the case when you glance at the Betway Premiership standings, but for champions Mamelodi Sundowns, this campaign is their worst start to a new season in six years.

Sundowns top the table with 21 points from 10 matches, but not since the 2019-20 season have they amassed as few points as their current tally after one-third of the campaign completed.

In contrast, Orlando Pirates’ record is their second best over the previous seven seasons, despite the fact that they lost their opening two games of the league campaign in August to Marumo Gallants and Sekhukhune United.

Since then, they have won six on the trot, all without conceding, and sit on 18 points from eight matches, with two games in hand on Sundowns.

Pirates had 21 points from their first eight games last season in a better start than this year but then faded along the way and, in the end, finished runners-up to Sundowns by 12 points.

Pirates have ended second in their last three Premiership campaigns, and on each occasion, it has been a runaway triumph for the Brazilians.

But it could be a lot closer this season. Sundowns have not started this poorly since the Covid-ravaged 2019-20 season when they had 18 points after their opening 10 league matches but then came from behind to snatch the title from Kaizer Chiefs on a dramatic last day. Chiefs had a double-digit points lead before the outbreak of other Covid-19 epidemics.

 

Two seasons ago in the 2023-24 campaign, Sundowns won all of their opening 10 matches of the campaign and went on to win the title by a record 23-point margin from Pirates in second place.

Mamelodi Sundowns

After 10 Matches

Points

2019/20 18

2020/21 24

2021/22 26

2022/23 22

2023/24 30

2024/25 27

2025/26 21

––––––––––

Orlando Pirates

After 8 Matches

Points

2019/20 9

2020/21 13

2021/22 11

2022/23 14

2023/24 9

2024/25 21

2025/26 18

 

Orlando Pirates could draw level with Mamelodi Sundowns at the top of the Betway Premiership standings when the two sides clash at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.

Kick-off is at 3:30pm CAT (SA, GMT+2).

CURRENT FORM

Mamelodi Sundowns sit top of the table in the Betway Premiership with 21 points from 10 games, losing one game, drawing three and winning six.

The reigning champions defeated Remo Stars of Nigeria 2-0 last weekend in the second leg of their CAF Champions League tie which saw Masandawana win 7-1 on aggregate.

With no Carling Knockout fixture to catch up on - as they have been knocked out of the competition - Masandawana should be well rested for the challenge ahead.

Pirates have had a mixed season in terms of results.

The Buccaneers have two games in hand in the Betway Premiership and sit just three points behind Sundowns on the log.

They could pull level with a game in hand with a win at Loftus on Saturday.

However, the Bucs crashed out of the CAF Champions League on penalties against Saint-Éloi Lupopo, losing on penalties in the second leg after a three-goal comeback from the Bucs.

They are back in the win column after beating reigning champions Magesi 2-1 in the Carling Knockout at home on Tuesday.

The two sides have met twice already this season in the MTN8, with both games standing at 1-1 after regulation time.

Pirates advanced to the final after winning 4-1 on penalties in the second leg, going on to win the competition for a fourth consecutive year.

TEAM NEWS

Sundowns will not be able to field midfield maestro Teboho Mokoena or new signing Miguel Reisinho as both players are serving suspensions, Mokoena for yellow cards accumulated and Reisinho for a red card received against Marumo Gallants.

Masandawana will also be without the injured Themba Zwane, Iqraam Rayners, Malibongwe Khoza and Mothobi Mvala.

Pirates could receive a boost as Deano van Rooyen was on the bench for the Buccaneers on Tuesday after picking up an injury early in the season.

However, midfielder Selaelo Rasebotja and defender Thabiso Sesane are not fully fit and ready, alongside Olisa Ndah, Makhehleni Makhaula and Tapelo Xoki.

Relebohile Mofokeng has also been absent after picking up an injury before the last international break in October.

WHAT WAS SAID

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou expressed his frustration with his players’ lack of killer instinct in their 2-1 win over Magesi on Tuesday.

“As a coach, I want to attract the attention of my players that football is scoring goals. When you have the possibility to score goals, score goals. Like I told you just before, at the end of the league, every goal is very important.

“Don't joke. We are not here to joke. We are here to perform. We are here to give results. If somebody wants to enjoy, to joke, no problem. He can go to make five-a-side with his colleagues, but we are not here to joke. We are here to reach some targets.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Mamelodi Sundowns - Nuno Santos has gotten off to a great start for Sundowns. The Portuguese midfielder is a dangerous threat as both a playmaker and scorer, and will be a handful for the Orlando Pirates defence to deal with.

Orlando Pirates - Tshepang Moremi could be the key figure for the Buccaneers on Saturday. He scored the first goal against Magesi on Tuesday and has seven goals in 14 games across all competitions this season. His pace and ability to find the target will make him a serious threat to Masandawana.

𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐰 𝐀𝐯𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞

🆚 @Masandawana
🗓️ Saturday,01 November 2025
🏟️ Loftus Versfeld Stadium
⏰ 15H30
🎟️ R60.00 | @TicketProSA

⚫⚪🔴⭐#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/JqGmrNI3sa

— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) October 28, 2025

HEAD-TO-HEAD (league fixtures)

Total

P W D L GF GA

Sundowns 81 38 21 22 109 72

Pirates 81 22 21 38 72 109

Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates will both be on the road in matchday 11 of the ongoing 2025/26 Betway Premiership season.

The action will be headlined by a titanic clash between Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday, with the game set to be played in front of a sold-out crowd at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

This will be the third meeting between the two teams this season as they drew 1-1 twice in the two-legged MTN8 semifinal tie, but the Buccaneers overcame Masandawana 4-1 during a penalty shootout.

However, the last time Pirates faced Sundowns at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium, the reigning league champions claimed an emphatic 4-1 win in an enthralling league encounter played in February 2025.

Chiefs, on the other hand, have braced themselves for their first-ever meeting with PSL Premiership newcomers, Durban City, who have had a decent start to life in the local top-flight.

City are undefeated at home this season, as they prepare to host Chiefs at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday, but Amakhosi are oozing with confidence after defeating DR Congo's AS Simba 3-1 last weekend.

Two matches will be played on Friday, with Sekhukhune United on a mission to reclaim the Betway Premiership's top spot when they travel to Bloemfontein, where they are scheduled to square off with Siwelele FC at Dr Molemela Stadium.

 

🚨 NEXT MATCH 🚨

🆚 @Siwelele_FC
🏆#BetwayPremiership
🏟 Dr Molemela Stadium
📅 Friday, 31 October 2025
⏰ 7:30pm
📺 DStv Stream and Showmax

🎟️ Tickets available @R40 https://t.co/MLnbIE3xUT

🦔🦔🦔#Adibahlabe #BetwayPrem pic.twitter.com/yMOGENaJsK

— Sekhukhune United F.C. (@SekhukhuneFc) October 29, 2025

 

On Saturday, Chippa United will play host to AmaZulu FC at the Buffalo City Stadium, while Magesi FC will be away to Orbit College at Olympia Park and Richards Bay are set to visit Polokwane City at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium.

Two games are scheduled to be played on Sunday, with TS Galaxy welcoming Stellenbosch FC to the Mbombela Stadium, while Golden Arrows lock horns with Marumo Gallants at the King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium.

 

🚨⚽️ NEXT MATCH! ⚽️🚨 @TSGALAXYFC v @StellenboschFC

📅Date: 2 November 2025
🕒Time: 15:00 pm
🏟Location: Mbombela Stadium@aQuelle @aQuelleViV#Siyadumuza #TheRockets #TSG pic.twitter.com/b9qW4Ecz2W

— TS Galaxy FC (@TSGALAXYFC) October 30, 2025

 

Betway Premiership fixtures

Friday

7:30pm - Durban City v Kaizer Chiefs

7:30pm - Siwelele FC v Sekhukhune United

Saturday

3:30pm - Mamelodi Sundowns v Orlando Pirates

3:30pm - Orbit College v Magesi FC

6pm - Polokwane City v Richards Bay

20:15 - Chippa United v AmaZulu FC

Sunday

3:30pm - TS Galaxy v Stellenbosch FC

6pm - Golden Arrows v Marumo Gallants

Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates meet at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday in a clash that could determine the outcome of this season’s Betway Premiership. Catch the action live on SuperSport.

While the season is only a third of the way completed, it is the two clubs who have emerged again as the sides who look most likely to win the championship come the end of the season.

But while previous campaigns have seen Sundowns rapidly build up a major points advantage over their rivals, it is a lot tighter this time round and will ensure an intriguing clash live on SuperSport (kick-off 3:30pm).

The Brazilians are back in #BetwayPrem action at home this weekend! 💪

⚽ Mamelodi Sundowns vs Orlando Pirates
🏆 Betway Premiership
📆 01 November
⏰ 15H30
🏟️ Loftus Versfeld Stadium
📺 SS 202 & SABC 1#Sundowns #AreyengMasandawana pic.twitter.com/mtMZilGK7O

— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) October 29, 2025

That makes Saturday’s clash vital for both sides. Sundowns have a three-point advantage but have played two more matches. If they win, the Brazilians will stretch that to six points, but if Pirates pull off an away triumph, then they will feel they are on track for a first league title in more than a decade.

PREVIOUS CLASHES

This is the third meeting between the two sides this season after their MTN8 semifinal, which ended 2-2 on aggregate over two legs and saw Pirates win 4-1 on post-match penalties. The last league clash between the two saw Pirates also emerge victorious with a 2-1 home win in March, courtesy of Relebogile Mofokeng’s double, but their last visit to Loftus was one month before that and saw Sundowns hand them a 4-1 thumping with a masterclass from Brazilian playmaker Lucas Ribeiro.

Sundowns are unbeaten in their last seven home league matches against the Sea Robbers. It was in January 2018 that Pirates last won a league game in the capital, when Mpho Makola, Luvuyo Memela, and Ntsikelelo Nyauza scored for the Buccaneers in a 3-1 triumph. Saturday’s clash will be the 117th between the two clubs, with Sundowns 47-34 ahead in the win count.

ATTACK

Sundowns have netted 17 league goals this season, but in 10 matches, it means an average of less than two per game. Last season, their 65-goal tally in 28 games was an impressive average of 2.6 goals per match. Pirates have scored 10 goals in eight Betway Premiership games in this campaign, and last season also had a mediocre average with 43 goals in their league fixtures.

Iqraam Rayners has six league goals this season, but injury has kept him out of their last two games. Peter Shalulile has proven a more than capable replacement, and five previous goals against Pirates feature among his career record-breaking total of 132 top-flight goals in South African football.

Pirates’ league goals this new campaign have been spread among eight players, with Patrick Maswanganyi and Tshepang Moremi scoring a double. But Sundowns will not be relishing playing against Kamogelo Sebelebele, who scored against them in both legs of the MTN8 semifinal in August.

DEFENCE

Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou was angry his side conceded a stoppage-time goal to Magesi in the Carling Knockout, doing so as they showboated in the closing stages on top of a two-goal lead. He feels it is unnecessary.

“In the league, every goal is very important, especially at the end (of the season),” he warned.

Pirates have only conceded three league goals, when they lost to Marumo Gallants and Sekhukhune United in an opening-season shock double defeat in the league. Their last six league games, however, have all seen clean sheets for the best defensive record in the Betway Premiership.

Sundowns’ tally of goals let in is five in ten games, also evidence of a healthy defence even if they have had injury woes at the back with the likes of Grant Kekana and Mothobi Mvalase out for several games and Khuliso Mudau making a belated start to the season as he tried to force a move away from the club at the start of the season.

SELECTION

Sundowns will not be able to field new Portuguese signing Miguel Reisinho who is suspended after a red card in their cup loss to Marumo Gallants but will hope to have Rayners and Malibongwe Khoza, who had an ankle issue, back in contention, albeit they both might start on the bench.

Sundowns should go with the attacking trio of Tashreeq Matthews, Arthur Sales and Shalulile, with Marcelo Allende and Teboho Mokoena in midfield. On Tuesday, Pirates made six changes to the line-up from their African Champions League tie on Saturday when they took on Magesi in the Carling Knockout with Ouaddou resting players for the clash against Sundowns.

It is likely Namibian veteran Deon Hotto will be back on the left and Thalente Mbatha and Sihle Ndlui return to their defensive midfield roles. A place could also be found for Sebelebele.

WHAT COMES AFTER

Sundowns’ immediate interest after Saturday’s game will be on Monday’s Champions League draw where they will find out the identity of their group phase opponents. It is the 11th successive season they have qualified for the last-16 of the continent’s top club competition.

They are next on the pitch on Wednesday at home to TS Galaxy at Loftus. Pirates’ next two fixtures are both away in KwaZulu-Natal, starting with Lamontville Golden Arrows in midweek and then the Carling Knockout semifinal at Richards Bay on the weekend of 8-9 November.

Durban City head coach Gavin Hunt wants to see a reaction from his players when they host Kaizer Chiefs in a Betway Premiership clash at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday.

Kick-off is at 7:30pm CAT (SA, GMT+2).

CURRENT FORM

The Citizens were dumped out of the Carling Knockout last weekend following a 3-1 defeat to Richards Bay in the quarterfinals, having squandered the lead to be taken to extra time.

Hunt's side had also lost their last league encounter against AmaZulu (1-0) on 18 October after going unbeaten in their previous two outings, a 0-0 draw with Stellenbosch and a 3-1 win over Magesi.

City find themselves in a three-way tie with Polokwane City (6th) and Usuthu (7th) on 15 points and trail Chiefs (4th) by one in fifth position.

The Glamour Boys are also targeting a return to winning ways after a goalless stalemate with Siwelele on 22 October left them without victory in their last four outings.

Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef's side received a huge confidence boost after they qualified for the CAF Confederation Cup group stages thanks to a 3-1 win over AS Simba on 26 October.

Amakhosi could actually climb above arch-rivals Orlando Pirates if they come out on top in Durban, with the Buccaneers only in action against Mamelodi Sundowns the following day.

WHAT WAS SAID

Durban City head coach Gavin Hunt: "It's not a blessing in disguise (being eliminated from the Carling Knockout), we want to play more games. So, we're going to have a period now where we don't play for two weeks. It's disappointing, you want to play more. The more you play, the better.

"We just have to look at the next game. We know what we can do and what we can't do. We obviously need to look at a big game next week and we need to be better again."

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Durban City - Trevor Mokwena will take confidence from his stunning strike against the Natal Rich Boyz, having hit the ball first time from range after running onto Saziso Magawana's square pass.

It was the 24-year-old winger's first goal since he opened his account against Siwelele as well as providing an assist for Letsie Koapeng in a 2-0 win on 16 September.

Kaizer Chiefs - Makabi Lilepo has struggled to rediscover his form from last season when he scored six goals in 15 league appearances for the Soweto giants after making the switch from Valenciennes in January.

The 28-year-old winger has gone eight games since opening his account against Stellenbosch on 10 August, although he did score in the 3-1 win over AS Simba last weekend.

Head-to-Head: (Last Five Betway Premiership Matches)

Matches - 5

Durban City wins - 0

Kaizer Chiefs wins - 4

Draws - 1

Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker has made no effort to hide his disappointment at the sale of key players over the years but is also quick to assert he understands the business of the game and why they must move on.

In their six seasons since winning promotion, Stellenbosch have forged a reputation for producing top home-grown talent as well as nurturing players from elsewhere and the club has made as pot-full of money selling their top recruits.

Jayden Adams to Mamelodi Sundowns, Ashley du Preez to Kaizer Chiefs and Dean van Rooyen were all from the club’s youth academy and came through their DStv Diski Challenge side while the likes of Fawaaz Basadien, Zitha Kwinika, Olwethu Makhanya, Junior Mendieta, Sibongiseni Mthethwa, Sihle Nduli, Iqraam Rayners and Ismael Toure have gone onto to bigger clubs after their time passing through Stellenbosch.

Barker says the club cannot stand in the way of players earning better salaries and opportunities elsewhere although does muse about how much better his side might have been had they not sold as much talent.

“The better you become as a football club, winning cups and reaching finals, the stock of the players is a lot higher, far more valuable.”

“One of our philosophies is that we have to serve the players to reach their full potential. So, you know, everybody serves the club to the best of their ability, it's about every day making sure when you get to work, you're giving your best. That's all we ask of the players every day at training to give their best and every time they play to give the best, so we expect that also the staff members, but I think having a vision and having a clear strategic plan allows everybody within in the organisation to flourish and to grow with the club.

“But again, it's always about the next game. You are only as good as your last game, so you got to just keep at it and keep performing and keep giving your best and I think the rest takes care of itself,” Barker adds.

“If players leave the club will continue to have its values and play the way that we believe will continue to make us successful. So although we do lose players, those coming in just seamlessly fit in.”

Considering all the departures, the Stellenbosch coach says he proud of their achievements as they head to Bloemfontein on Sunday to take on Marumo Gallants in the Carling Knockout quarterfinal.

“Hopefully we can manage on Wednesday to get ourselves into another semifinal, which I think again would be a remarkable achievement, considering how many semifinals we've been getting into in the last couple of years.”

Barker says the hectic schedule of games, which is as a result of doing well in domestic cup competition and also competing in the African Confederation Cup is draining but that is another price of success.

“Players are professionals that get paid for their profession, so I've always said it and I keep saying it, that we must not want to be playing in Africa and then complain about playing in Africa. We can still have a really special season. We've made a cup final already, and now the (Confederation Cup) group stages. We're in a quarterfinal of the Carling Knockout. So the motivation is just, never get hungry of succeeding, never get not hungry for success. We just got to have that desire to keep winning things, to keep competing at the highest level.”

Since winning promotion in 2019, Stellenbosch have won the Carling Knockout two years ago and bene to two MTN8 finals, losing both last year and this season to Orlando Pirates.

Last season, in their debut in continental club competition, they reached the Confederation Cup semifinal.

 

Lamontville Golden Arrows coach Manqoba Mngqithi found it difficult to stomach scoring three goals on the road and still ending on the losing side as his team lost a seven-goal thriller at Stellenbosch on Wednesday.

Arrows came back three times at the Athlone Stadium, scoring superb goals, but lost 4-3 and ended a three-match winning streak as they dropped to ninth in the Betway Premiership standings.

“Overall, it was very good football for spectators. I can tell you this is what I would come to watch a football match for. But for us as coaches, it says a lot when you concede four goals and the way we conceded,” Mngqithi said.

“The positive is the fact that we managed to score three very beautiful and very difficult goals to score, but we go home with nothing. That’s hard to take.”

Mngqithi said Arrows had started the match slowly. “Stellenbosch put a lot of pressure in the early stages of the game. We anticipated that they wanted to get an early goal in the first 15 minutes, because they know their legs might not last. And they did that.

“But we regrouped, and we showed what we are capable of. We started our passing game, and we created chances and scored.

“But at the same time, we just kept on conceding goals from elementary mistakes. The last three goals were just our own mistakes.”

But Mngqithi said Arrows must still be considered a work in progress. “I’m still very impressed with how the team is coming up. I think the team is growing every match. We are creating good, good opportunities. We are playing to our strength.

“And we were playing against a good team. We can never take that away from Stellenbosch. We know how good they can be, but we were very hopeful that maybe we might have a slight advantage in terms of the legs,” he added.

“So we have to work very hard and try to get ourselves better, but otherwise, I'm impressed with the progress that the team is making.”

Orlando Pirates stayed in touch with the Betway Premiership frontrunners on Wednesday, while Stellenbosch came out on top in a seven-goal thriller against Golden Arrows.

Orlando Pirates made it six wins in a row as they edged Polokwane City 1-0 at the Orlando Stadium to maintain third place in the standings.

Tshepang Moremi's sixth-minute goal settled the contest in Soweto to ensure that Abdeslam Ouaddou's side closed within three points of league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns with two games in hand.

Tshepang Moremi and Pirates punish Polokwane's defence 🎯💥

📺 Stream #BetwayPrem on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc@McDonalds_SA pic.twitter.com/JzBZSa5zdt

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 22, 2025

Rise And Shine remain in a three-way tie with Durban City (5th) and AmaZulu (7th) after suffering their second defeat in three matches.

Meanwhile, Stellenbosch arrested a worrying five-game winless run with a thrilling 4-3 victory over Golden Arrows at Athlone Stadium.

The Maroons got off to a promising start when Langelihle Phili opened the scoring on 14 minutes, but Luthando Ndlovu hit back for Abafana Bes'thende two minutes before halftime.

Andre de Jong (49', 61') restored Stellies' lead twice in the opening stages of the second half, although they were pegged back each time by Junior Dion (54') and Isaac Cisse (73') before Muzomuhle Khanyi struck the winning goal on 76 minutes.

We emerge victorious from a seven-goal thriller 🔥

Stellenbosch FC 4️⃣–3️⃣ Golden Arrows#HeartoftheCape #MoreThanFootball #StellenboschFC 🍇 pic.twitter.com/v3SfhIshtT

— Stellenbosch FC (@StellenboschFC) October 22, 2025

Steve Barker's side climbed above Magesi on goal difference up to 13th spot, leaving Arrows (9th) level with TS Galaxy and Marumo Gallants on 13 points.

In the other concurrent match at the FNB Stadium, Kaizer Chiefs fell further behind in the title race after sharing the spoils with Siwelele in a 0-0 draw.

The Glamour Boys extended their winless streak to four outings as they saw the Buccaneers open up a two-point gap to them, with Stellenbosch's win seeing Siwelele drop to 15th place.

The #BetwayPrem's mid-week matches deliver eight goals ⚽#SSDiski pic.twitter.com/BWGRjEHvx9

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 22, 2025

WEDNESDAY'S RESULTS

Kaizer Chiefs 0-0 Siwelele

Orlando Pirates 1-0 Polokwane City

Stellenbosch 4-3 Golden Arrows

Kaizer Chiefs lost more ground on the Betway Premiership frontrunners after being held to a 0-0 draw by struggling Siwelele at the FNB Stadium on Wednesday night.

The Glamour Boys had almost three times as many shots at goal as Lehlohonolo Seema's side, but they didn't work Ricardo Goss nearly enough to earn all three points as arch-rivals Orlando Pirates went two points clear of them in third place.

Amakhosi were seeking their first win in four games, having played out to a 1-1 draw with AmaZulu most recently on 1 October, while Siwelele looked to build on their 1-0 victory over Marumo Gallants three days earlier which lifted them off the foot of the table up to 14th position.

The possession stakes were fairly even in the first half, but Chiefs posed the greater danger, although it was the visitors who created the first two chances as Brandon Petersen made a routine save on three minutes before he reacted well to block a shot from close range in the 17th minute.

Goss was called into action for the first time moments later to keep out a long-range effort from Mduduzi Shabalala and he was relieved to see Mfundo Vilakazi flash a shot narrowly wide of goal on 21 minutes.

The final action of the half saw Reeve Frosler fire inches over the crossbar on 40 minutes and Zita Kwinika also failed to keep his shot down three minutes after the restart.

The hosts continued to push for the opening goal as halftime substitute Makabi Lilepo missed the target with an attempt on 52 minutes before Frosler was guilty of failing to test Goss once more with a wayward strike in the 54th minute.

Frosler was presented with another opportunity on 71 minutes and he did at least manage to test Goss on this occasion, while Petersen had to be at his best soon afterwards when Chibuike Ohizu made contact with Christian Saile's cross and forced him into a diving save.

However, both defences held firm in the closing stages and the two teams had to settle for a share of the spoils in Nasrec.

90 + 5’| #CHI 0 : 0 #SIW

Full time score: Kaizer Chiefs 0 : 0 Siwelele FC #Amakhosi4Life #BetwayPrem #AlwaysHome pic.twitter.com/ireOuN1232

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) October 22, 2025

Kaizer Chiefs 0

Siwelele 0

Kaizer Chiefs: B. Petersen, R. Frosler, Z. Kwinika, I. Miguel (B. Cross 46'), A. McCarthy, T. Cele, S. Mthethwa (S. Ndlovu 69'), W. Duba (M. Lilepo 46'), M. Vilakazi (G. Sirino 70'), M. Shabalala, E. Ighodaro (K. Mayo 70').

Siwelele: R. Goss, Y. Mfolozi, P. Sanoka, T. Makhele, N. Rapoo (A. Baliti 64'), G. Margeman, R. Mokhuoane (G. Moralo 75'), T. Potsane, V. Pule (S. Magidigidi 58'), G. Lungu (C, Saile 58'), C. Ohizu (K. Ayer 75').

In what was a spectacle of goals at the Athlone Stadium this week, Stellenbosch FC recorded a see-saw 4-3 win over Golden Arrows in their latest Betway Premiership assignment on Wednesday night.

While the game ended 1-1 at halftime, Stellenbosch took the lead on three occasions in the second half to ultimately bag maximum points on home soil.

We emerge victorious from a seven-goal thriller 🔥

Stellenbosch FC 4️⃣–3️⃣ Golden Arrows#HeartoftheCape #MoreThanFootball #StellenboschFC 🍇 pic.twitter.com/v3SfhIshtT

— Stellenbosch FC (@StellenboschFC) October 22, 2025

Stellenbosch immediately went on the attack during the early exchanges of the match, as seen with shots by Langelihle Phili and Thato Khiba inside the 18-yard-area.

With Golden Arrows holding on, the home side actively searched for an opener in the first 10 minutes.

The Cape Winelands side’s pressure paid off in the 14th minute and took the lead through Phili, who capped off a rapid break into the Arrows area.

After 20 minutes played at the Athlone Stadium, Stellies were in control of the tie.

Siyanda Mthanti let off a shot from outside the area in the 32nd minute which was saved by Sage Stephens, as he attempted to get Arrows on the scoresheet.

Then, following a couple of attacks during the latter stages of the half, Arrows drew level moments before the break courtesy of a driving effort by Siyanda Ndlovu.

After beating a number of Stellenbosch players from the half-way line, Ndlovu capped off the move with a right-footed shot from the centre of the area.

LIVELY SECOND HALF

Stellenbosch retook the lead in the 49th minute with Andre de Jong getting in on the action early at the restart.

The New Zealander showcased his aerial ability by completing a header from the centre of the area.

Not holding back, Arrows equalised just five minutes later through Junior Dion after linking up with Philani Khumalo en-route to goal.

De Jong, who scored early in the second half, once again put Stellenbosch ahead in the 61st minute.

The Western Cape outfit made the most of a set-piece situation and fired home from close range.

Then, after second-half substitute Isaac Cisse struck the upright with a header in the 72nd minute, the Arrows player added his side’s third goal a minute later with a right-footed effort from range.

Just when Arrows felt as though they could build momentum after levelling the game, Stellenbosch re-took the lead yet again, as Muzomuhle Khanyi added his name to the scoresheet in the 76th minute.

The game eventually ended 4-3 in Stellenbosch’s favour despite late attempts by the travelling outfit.

With two assists to his name, Devin Titus is tonight's Man of the Match ⭐️#HeartoftheCape #MoreThanFootball #StellenboschFC 🍇 pic.twitter.com/RuNYm48ivW

— Stellenbosch FC (@StellenboschFC) October 22, 2025

Stellenbosch FC: (1) 4 (Phili 14’, de Jong 49’, 61’, Khanyi 76')

Golden Arrows: (1) 3 (Ndlovu 43’, Dion 54’, Cisse 73’)

Stellenbosch FC: Stephens, Moloisane, Stanic, Barns, Manafov (Mdaka 82’), Mthiyane, Khiba (Jabaar 68’), De Jong (Butsaka 82’), Phili (Lekoloane 68’), Cupido (Khanyi 68’), Titus

Golden Arrows: Mbanjwa, Zwane (Cisse 57’), Cele, Jiyane, Dlamini, Lukhele, Mantshiyane, Khumalo (Karelse 70’), Ndlovu, Maxwele (Sibiya 79’), Dion (van Rooi 79’)

Tshepang Moremi’s goal saw Orlando Pirates close the gap at the top of the Betway Premiership with a win over Polokwane City at the Orlando Stadium on Wednesday.

The Buccaneers extended their winning streak in the league to six games and are now three points behind league-leaders Mamelodi Sundowns with two games in hand.  They moved to third on the table.

Polokwane City could not keep up with the hosts and were handed their third loss of the season in the league.

The Limpopo-based outfit remain sixth on the standings with 15 points from 10 games.

The hosts got off to a hot start, finding the back of the net in the sixth minute.

Oswin Appolis’s cross was pushed away from goal by goalkeeper Brian Bwire into the path of Tshepang Moremi, who pounced on the loose ball, converting from close range for his second league goal of the season.

Tshepang Moremi and Pirates punish Polokwane's defence 🎯💥

📺 Stream #BetwayPrem on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc@McDonalds_SA pic.twitter.com/JzBZSa5zdt

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 22, 2025

In the 23rd minute, Moremi had a chance to snatch his second of the game as he received a chip in the box from Patrick Maswanganyi.

The winger scuffed his effort as he attempted to hit the ball first-time.

Rise and Shine’s first real opportunity of the half came from a freekick in the 32nd minute, but the header that followed the delivery was off target.

Maswanganyi nearly bagged a goal of his own in the 34th minute as his curler from outside the area sailed narrowly wide of goal.

Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine was called into action in the 36th minute as Bonginkosi Dlamini stole the ball on the edge of the area to put himself through on goal.

However, Dlamini’s touch was too heavy and Chaine rushed forward, getting to the ball first.

The visitors received a freekick from scoring distance in first-half stoppage time and Manuel Kambala nearly beat Chaine along the ground, but the goalkeeper pushed the ball aside for a corner.

In the 48th minute, Appolis’s shot from the edge of the box took a deflection and was easily scooped up by Bwire.

Evidence Makgopa squandered a chance to double Pirates’ lead in the 59th minute, as he made contact with Maswanganyi’s cross but hit the upright from close range.

Substitute Yanela Mbuthuma tried to find the top right corner in the 68th minute but was denied by a diving Bwire.

The Polokwane City goalkeeper was called into action again in the 70th minute, denying Maswanganyi’s close range curler with a super save.

Appolis was denied a goal against his former side in the 74th minute as his effort from in line with the penalty spot was blocked.

In stoppage time, Maswanganyi could not take advantage of superior numbers charging into the Polokwane box as he was dispossessed before he could play through a potential assist.

☠️ 🤴🏾 Man of the Match | Patrick Maswanganyi @orlandopirates 1 - 0 @polokwane_city

🥅 Moremi 6'

⚫⚪🔴⭐#MatchDay#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/W2TcxgSTul

— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) October 22, 2025

Orlando Pirates will shift their attention to the CAF Champions League as they look to overcome a three-goal deficit on Saturday when they welcome Saint-Éloi Lupopo to the Orlando Stadium.

Polokwane City are next in action on 1 November as they host Richards Bay at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium.

Orlando Pirates (1) 1 (Moremi 6’)

Polokwane City 0

Orlando Pirates: S. Chaine, L. Seema, M. Mbokazi, K. Sebelebele (S. Ndlozi 72’), N. Ndaba, S. Nduli, M. Nemtajela, P. Maswanganyi, O. Appolis (N. Sibisi 87’), T. Moremi (K. Dlamini 65’), E. Makgopa (Y. Mbuthuma 65’)

Polokwane City: B. Bwire, T. Matuludi, T. Nkwe, L. Nkaki, M. Mvundela, M. Kambala, R. Daniels (S. Mashini 77’), N. Maphangule (S. Kelepu 82’), B. Dlamini, S. Tshabalala (M. Ramabu 77’), B. Mnguni (P. Marema 46’)

Bottom-placed Chippa United have fired coach Luc Eymael and appointed Vusimusi Vilakazi in his place, the club said on Wednesday.

Vilakazi becomes the club’s fifth coach of the season after they began the campaign with Sinethemba Badela in charge and had Musa Nyatama and Morgan Mamilla then on the bench in a caretaker role before appointing Belgian Eymael.

The journeyman coach won a single one of seven games in charge with four defeats and two draws.

Chippa sit bottom of the Betway Premiership table after losing 2-1 away to Marumo Gallants on Sunday.

“Chippa United FC confirms a mutual separation with Head Coach Luc Eymael. We thank him for his professionalism and wish him all the best in his future endeavours. We are pleased to welcome back Kanu Vilakazi as the new Head Coach. Familiar with our Club’s values and ambitions, he is well-placed to lead us forward in the Betway Premiership League. To our loyal supporters — thank you for your belief and encouragement. We promise to bounce back stronger as the Chilli Boys,” said a statement by their Sporting Director Sinesipho Mali.

🚨 CLUB ANNOUNCEMENT 🚨

Chippa United FC confirms a mutual separation with Head Coach Luc Eymael. We thank him for his professionalism and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

We are pleased to welcome back Kanu Vilakazi as the new Head Coach. Familiar with our… pic.twitter.com/JMTusLdMjW

— Chippa United FC (@ChippaUnitedFC) October 22, 2025

The 43-year-old Vilakazi has had a quick succession of jobs, including a previous spell at Chippa as technical director.

As a coach, he was jointly in charge of Lamontville Golden Arrows with Mabhuti Khenyeza before a spell at Richards Bay.

Last season, he was co-coach at AmaZulu with Arthur Zwane but quit midway through the season.

Kaizer Chiefs are the only other club who have made a managerial change this season with the departure of Nasreddine Nabi.