Chippa United hold Orlando Pirates at half-time in Kings Park stalemate

Chippa United and Orlando Pirates were locked at 0-0 at half-time in their Betway Premiership meeting at Kings Park Stadium on Sunday, with the visitors unable to break down a deep defensive line.

The crowd grew increasingly anxious as Orlando Pirates dominated possession and territory without creating a clear opening during the first 45 minutes.

The Buccaneers began on the front foot, looking to score early, but Chippa United dropped deep and limited their opponents largely to attempts from outside the penalty area.

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou made three changes to the side that drew with AmaZulu on Wednesday. Oswin Appollis, Deon Hotto and Mokobodi were recalled to the starting line-up after Ouaddou criticised the performance and called on a number of his players to “wake up”.

Despite Pirates’ early pressure, Chippa United showed little ambition to move out of their defensive shape. Their most effective route forward came through the pace of Justice Figareido, who managed to get beyond Kamogelo Sebelebele several times on the right side of the Pirates defence.

The best chance of the half fell to former Orlando Pirates player Goodman Mosele. Imraan Jones’ free-kick reached the midfielder at the far post, but Mosele’s first-time volley from close range sailed well over the crossbar.

Chippa United goalkeeper Nwabali had otherwise enjoyed a relatively quiet opening period, with Orlando Pirates unable to turn their territorial advantage into a decisive chance.

The match was being played on 16 August 2026 at Kings Park Stadium in the Betway Premiership.

Line-ups

Chippa United started with 23. Nwabali, 31. Jones, 22. Mobara, 35. Majadibodu, 28. Madingwane, 20. Mosele, 25. Kammies, 8. Mfecane, 29. Mlotshwa, 15. Tshobeni and 7. Figareido.

Their substitutes were 32. Msibi, 50. Sam, 9. Bonani, 26. Dlamini, 4. Mbhele, 37. Makara, 21. Seabi, 34. Tshabalala and 27. Diakite.

Orlando Pirates named 24. Chaine, 5. Sibisi, 6. Seema, 36. Sebelebele, 7. Hotto, 46. Dansin, 33. Mokobodi, 28. Maswanganyi, 12. Appollis, 23. Lungu and 9. Mbuthuma in their starting XI.

Pirates’ substitutes were 32. Dladla, 49. Kgositsile, 48. Masilela, 45. Msendami, 37. Zulu, 29. Mthiyane, 25. Radiopane, 19. Rapoo and 4. Mariko.