Pirates rise again in the title race
Orlando supporters had plenty to smile about on Tuesday evening as Orlando Pirates returned to the summit of the Betway Premiership with a 2-0 victory over AmaZulu FC at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
It was one of those Durban nights where the air feels heavy but the football feels alive, with fans from both sides filling the stands long before kickoff. Pirates, who have been chasing momentary slips from their title rivals, needed a bold response. And they found it through one of the PSL’s brightest young stars.
Mofokeng steals the spotlight
Relebohile Mofokeng once again delivered the kind of fearless performance that has made him a fan favourite in Soweto. His early header in the 16th minute set the tone, guiding in a beautifully measured cross from Tshepang Moremi.
From there, the 19 year old was everywhere. Direct, hungry, and constantly probing the AmaZulu defence, he played with the kind of confidence that suggests his Bafana Bafana journey is only just beginning.
A battle in both boxes
AmaZulu were far from spectators. They responded immediately, with Keegan Allan forcing a sharp stop from Sipho Chaine.
The Usuthu keeper Darren Johnson worked overtime too, keeping out Deon Hotto, Thalente Mbatha and Oswin Appollis in a frantic end to the first half.
After the break, the tempo shifted. Pirates lost some rhythm, and AmaZulu sensed an opening. Langelihle Mhlongo came closest late in the game, but Chaine stood firm again.
Just when the match looked destined for a tense finish, Pirates found their cushion in stoppage time. Mofokeng’s strike rebounded off the post and bounced into the net via Johnson, sealing the result with a touch of fortune.
What the win means
The victory pushes Pirates back into familiar territory at the top of the table, a psychological boost as the season edges closer to its defining stretch. For AmaZulu, the defeat is a reminder of the fine margins separating mid-table frustration from real momentum.
Pirates now shift focus to their Nedbank Cup clash against Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila this Saturday. AmaZulu will regroup ahead of their own Cup fixture against Polokwane City on 10 February.
A night that says plenty about the season ahead
This wasn’t just another league win. It felt like a statement from Pirates, a team rediscovering its bite at a crucial moment. And with Mofokeng rising rapidly as one of the PSL’s standout performers, the Buccaneers look ready to chase more than just wins.
They’re chasing the story of a season that could still belong to them.
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Source: SABC Sport
Featured Image Source: Kickoff Mag on X
