Lebone Seema scores on Bafana Bafana call-up as Orlando Pirates beat Durban City

Orlando Pirates defeated Durban City 2-0 at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Thursday, with Lebone Seema marking his first Bafana Bafana call-up by scoring in the Betway Premiership victory.

Several of the players selected by Pitso Mosimane for Bafana Bafana’s upcoming fixtures featured in the match, which offered another chance to assess the squad after the final group was confirmed.

Seema put Pirates ahead in the 57th minute after a composed and disciplined display in defence. The 23-year-old looked assured throughout the game and will take confidence from scoring while under scrutiny following his inclusion in the national team squad.

Pirates’ performance was not entirely convincing, however, and goalkeeper Sipho Chaine played an important role in securing the clean sheet.

Chaine was repeatedly tested when Durban City broke forward on the counter-attack, particularly during a first half in which the visitors created enough chances to have been at least 2-0 ahead. The goalkeeper responded with several important saves and remained calm during City’s most threatening spells.

Captain Nkosinathi Sibisi also produced a dependable performance in defence. He organised the back line effectively alongside his centre-back partner and helped limit the danger posed by Durban City as Pirates managed the match and protected their clean sheet.

Kamogelo Sebelebele was given the freedom to move forward because he faced little pressure defensively. The full-back provided an attacking option on the flank and looked dangerous when advancing into more influential positions.

Although Sebelebele did not score or register an assist, his willingness to support attacks was a notable part of his performance.

Yanela Mbuthuma found it more difficult to make an impression. The Orlando Pirates forward showed occasional glimpses of threat but was unable to exert consistent influence or produce a decisive contribution.

He will now hope for a stronger performance at his next opportunity to impress Mosimane.

Oswin Appollis came on in the 70th minute but struggled to affect the contest. The attacker was unable to settle into the game and did not make a significant attacking contribution during his time on the field.

With competition for places in Mosimane’s Bafana Bafana squad, Appollis will be looking to make a greater impact in the forthcoming international matches.

Brooklyn Poggenpoel was the only Bafana Bafana representative in the Durban City line-up. Despite ending on the losing side, the midfielder delivered a committed display in the centre of the pitch.

Poggenpoel competed strongly and helped City remain in contention during periods of the match. His performance offered encouragement as he continues to try to establish himself in Mosimane’s plans.