Orlando Pirates Kick Off Season With A Thrilling Victory Over Chippa United

Holifil

01 Apr, 2025

Orlando Pirates launched their title quest in the Premier Soccer League with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Chippa United in their season opener.
Coming back from a goal deficit, the Buccaneers delivered an impressive performance at the Orlando Stadium on Wednesday night.
The Soweto-based club dominated both halves, with a dramatic late goal sealing all three points for the Buccaneers.

Alright, sports fans, let's talk about how the Orlando Pirates set the tone for the 2024-25 Betway Premiership season with a stunning 2-1 victory over Chippa United at the Orlando Stadium on Wednesday, September 18, 2024. This was more than just a game—it was a statement. The Buccaneers showed exactly why they’re contenders this season.

Monnapule Saleng became the hero of the night, scoring in the dying moments to secure the Pirates' first three points of the campaign. Now, that’s what I call dramatic! The Buccaneers fought back from behind, thanks to goals from Tshegofatso Mabasa and Saleng, who put an exclamation point on their victory.

Orlando Pirates began their season with a well-deserved win over Chippa United in the Betway Premiership on Tuesday, September 18, 2024. Photo: Phill Magakoe. Source: Getty Images

How the Buccaneers Turned It Around

Let me set the scene for you: Orlando Pirates came out strong, but sometimes in soccer, the underdog strikes first. That’s exactly what happened when Andile Jali, a former Buccaneer, scored a beauty of a goal in the 22nd minute. He hit it from outside the box, leaving everyone in the stadium buzzing. But let me tell you, the Buccaneers didn’t let that early setback deter them. They kept pushing, and they nearly tied it up just 13 minutes later when Saleng’s shot was saved by Chippa’s goalkeeper, Nwabali.

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Chippa tried to double their lead when Bienvenu Eva Nga took a shot from outside the box, but Pirates’ goalkeeper Sipho Chaine was up to the task, making a crucial save to keep his team in the game. Then, just as the first half was winding down, the Buccaneers were awarded a penalty after Modise fouled Saleng in the box. Tshegofatso Mabasa stepped up and didn’t miss, leveling the score at 1-1 going into halftime.

The Second Half: A Battle of Wills

Now, here’s where things got really interesting. In the second half, the Buccaneers came out firing on all cylinders. They were determined to take control of the match, and they almost did just that in the 78th minute when Saleng had a golden opportunity to put them ahead. But, once again, Nwabali made an incredible save, and the ball hit the woodwork. It was one of those moments where you could feel the tension building in the stadium.

As the clock ticked down, Patrick Maswanganyi tried to force the issue with just five minutes left, but Nwabali was equal to the task yet again. But you know what they say: pressure pays off. And in the 92nd minute, with time running out, Saleng found himself in the right place at the right time. He headed in Deon Hotto’s cross, leaving the Nigerian goalkeeper with no chance. The stadium erupted in cheers as the Buccaneers sealed the deal with a dramatic late winner.

Pirates Eyeing Big Moves in the Transfer Market

But wait, there’s more! If you thought the drama ended on the field, think again. According to Briefly News, the Buccaneers are making moves off the pitch too. They’ve entered the race to sign Polokwane City star Oswin Appollis, who’s also on Kaizer Chiefs’ radar. The Pirates have reportedly made a cash-plus-player offer for the Bafana Bafana sensation, but there’s been a twist in the tale. Lesedi Kapinga, who was initially part of the deal, has been released by the club. This could change the dynamics of the transfer negotiations, and we’ll be keeping a close eye on how this unfolds.

So there you have it, folks. The Buccaneers are not just making waves on the field but also in the transfer market. It’s shaping up to be an exciting season, and if their season opener is any indication, the Pirates are here to make a statement. Let’s see if they can keep this momentum going and chase down that elusive title. Stay tuned, because this is just the beginning!