Orlando Pirates back on top after 3-0 win over Chippa United

Orlando Pirates revived their Betway Premiership title defence with a 3-0 victory over Chippa United at Kings Park Stadium on Sunday, scoring three times after half-time to return to the top of the table.

The Buccaneers had been held to a draw in their previous league match and faced another difficult afternoon after a goalless opening 45 minutes. However, three goals in the second half secured a convincing win and took Pirates to seven points from their first three league matches.

Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was beaten for the first time on the hour mark when Ghampani Lungu produced an impressive individual finish.

The off-season signing collected the ball on the edge of the penalty area before turning away from his marker and striking a powerful shot beyond Nwabali. The effort gave the visitors the breakthrough they had been seeking after a largely frustrated first half.

Pirates immediately built on their advantage, doubling their lead only three minutes later from a corner.

Lebone Seema rose highest inside the area to head the ball into the net, scoring his first goal of the season and putting the result firmly in Orlando Pirates’ control. The defender, who was named Defender of the Season last campaign, made an important contribution at both ends of the pitch.

Chippa United were unable to respond as Pirates managed the game with increasing authority. Daniel Msendami, introduced as a second-half substitute, completed the scoring in the 88th minute.

The goal was a notable milestone for Msendami, who had not scored for Orlando Pirates since joining the club in January. His late finish ensured that the visitors ended the match with a three-goal margin and a strong response to their previous league result.

The victory provides coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and his players with renewed momentum at the beginning of the campaign. Orlando Pirates have now moved back to the summit of the Betway Premiership table after three matches, while Chippa United were unable to prevent the defending champions from collecting all three points.

Pirates will next switch their focus from league football to the cup competition. They face Sekhukhune United in an MTN8 clash next weekend.