Orlando Pirates extended their unbeaten run to 10 matches in all competitions with a confident 2–0 victory over TS Galaxy in their Betway Premiership clash at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday evening. Goals from Evidence Makgopa and Tshegofatso Mabasa sealed three crucial points for the Buccaneers, who are steadily climbing the league standings and closing in on their title rivals.
Orlando Pirates Assert Early Dominance
The Soweto giants approached the game with intent, pressing Galaxy deep into their half from the outset. Their efforts paid off in the 19th minute when the referee awarded a controversial penalty after a challenge inside the area. Galaxy players reacted furiously, but Makgopa showed composure, sending goalkeeper Ira Tape the wrong way to open the scoring and register his first league goal of the season.
That early breakthrough boosted Pirates’ confidence, as they launched wave after wave of attacks. They ended the game with 15 shots compared to Galaxy’s six, demonstrating their attacking intent. Yet despite dominating possession at 52%, the hosts were repeatedly denied by the brilliance of Tape, who made a series of outstanding saves to keep the Rockets in contention.
Galaxy Struggle to Find a Response
TS Galaxy tried to change the flow of the match after the break, introducing striker Junior Zindonga to provide more threat upfront. While this tweak gave them brief moments of control, they rarely troubled Sipho Chaine in the Pirates’ goal. The Buccaneers’ defensive unit stood firm, cutting off supply lines and ensuring Galaxy had no clear opportunities to equalise.
For much of the second half, Pirates were in control, keeping the ball moving and patiently probing for a second goal. Their failure to convert earlier chances created tension in the stands, but Galaxy could not make their resistance count.
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Mabasa Strikes Late to Seal the Win
With the match deep into stoppage time, Pirates finally killed off any hopes of a Galaxy comeback. Substitute Tshegofatso Mabasa latched onto a late opening in the 92nd minute and calmly slotted home, doubling the lead and sealing the victory.
It was a moment that underlined the depth of Pirates’ squad, as Mabasa’s sharp finish ensured the Buccaneers’ unbeaten run continued. The 2–0 scoreline reflected their control, even if the margin could have been greater on another night.
Ouaddou Eyes Premiership Title Push
Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou praised his side’s discipline and resilience after the win, insisting that Pirates are showing the mentality required to challenge for the Betway Premiership crown.
“It was a very difficult game and we were expecting a strong opponent, and we got that. I’m very happy about the unity and solidarity of my players. They respected our plan and delivered a result,” said Ouaddou.
He added that consistency will be crucial: “We will keep working, and I hope my team keeps this spirit until the end of the season.”
The Buccaneers’ rise has been impressive after a slow start. They now sit third on the table with 15 points from seven matches, just six points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns but with three games in hand. Galaxy, meanwhile, are seventh with 13 points after eight outings.
Eyes on Cup Glory Next
Momentum is firmly with Orlando Pirates as they now turn their attention to knockout football. On Saturday, they will host Siwelele in the first round of the Carling Knockout Cup at Orlando Stadium, with kick-off set for 3pm.
Buoyed by their unbeaten streak, Pirates will enter that clash full of confidence, determined to keep their winning rhythm alive. For Galaxy, the focus shifts to their own Carling Knockout tie against Orbit College, where they will look to regroup after a frustrating defeat in Soweto.
With Pirates hitting form at just the right time, supporters are beginning to dream of silverware and perhaps even a serious title challenge.
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