Moremi seals Orlando Pirates win in tense league opener against Milford FC

Orlando Pirates began their defence of the championship title with a 2-0 victory over league newcomers Milford FC, although the scoreline did not reflect the control they enjoyed for long periods.

The defending champions were expected to make a more emphatic start against the rookies, but had to wait until the 85th minute to make the points safe. Tshepang Moremi took advantage of a tired Milford FC defence, rounded goalkeeper Siphamandla Hleza and finished into an empty net.

That goal ended an anxious contest in which Pirates had been limited to a narrow lead for most of the match. It also sparked a loud celebration among the Buccaneers supporters, who had turned out in large numbers after the long and drawn-out 2026 Fifa World Cup.

Pirates opened the scoring in the 24th minute through Oswin Appollis, whose free-kick appeared to take a deflection off Milford FC defender Vusumuzi Mthabela before finding the net. Appollis was credited with the goal and celebrated by raising the number 23 in tribute to his late friend Jayden Adams.

The result gives Orlando Pirates their first three points of the season, but coach Abdeslam Ouaddou may feel his side should have won by a wider margin after failing to make the most of their dominance.

Pirates controlled possession and created most of the opportunities during the opening half. Hotto, Appollis and Kamogelo Sebelebele were prominent as Ouaddou’s side looked to establish an early advantage.

Milford FC were not overawed, however, and twice tested Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine with long-range attempts inside the opening 20 minutes. Pirates also wasted several promising situations because of poor decision-making in the final third before Appollis finally produced the breakthrough.

The main selection question before kick-off was who would occupy the creative central midfield position left vacant by the departure of Relebohile Mofokeng. Ouaddou selected Patrick Maswanganyi for that role, while promising midfielder Camren Dansin partnered Thalente Mbatha as the double pivot against Mvelo Zikakayo and Thobani Bhengu.

In attack, Appollis, Moremi and Yanela Mbuthuma were chosen to threaten a Milford FC defence marshalled by Olwethu Cele and Mthabela. Mbuthuma struggled to make an impact, while Milford FC continued to show enough attacking intent to keep the contest competitive.

Pirates increased the tempo after half-time and came close to extending their advantage shortly after the hour mark. Hotto was denied by an alert Hleza, who came off his line to prevent the forward from scoring.

Unhappy with the slender 1-0 advantage in the closing stages, Ouaddou made a series of changes. Mbuthuma, Appollis, Hotto, Sebelebele and Maswanganyi were withdrawn, with Kabelo Kgisitsile, Neo Rapoo, Radiopane, Simphiwe Masilela and Gamphani Lungu introduced.

The substitutes gave Orlando Pirates a different shape and added energy to their attack. Their freshness helped create the decisive second goal, with Moremi catching Milford FC off guard before beating the advancing Hleza.

Milford FC manager Dr Xanti Pupuma can nevertheless take encouragement from a spirited display in the club’s second match of the season. His side will face Siwelele FC next.

The depth of Ouaddou’s squad could prove important because Orlando Pirates are back in the Champions League after last season’s disappointment. They began this campaign without Mpho Chabatsane, Nkosikhona Ndaba, Deano van Rooyen, Makhehleni Makhaula, Masindi Nemtajela, Andre de Jong, Kabelo Dlamini, Daniel Msendani and Evidence Makgopa.

Pirates supporters also paid tribute to Mofokeng, who has joined Belgian club Union Saint-Gilloise. A large banner in the stands read: ‘Thank You President Yama 2K.’

Before kick-off, the 30th anniversary of the PSL was marked by a show featuring flags representing the 52 clubs that have played in the league, along with a musical performance.