Orlando Pirates beat Kaizer Chiefs to extend winning run in 186th Soweto derby

Orlando Pirates made it seven consecutive league victories by beating Kaizer Chiefs in the 186th Soweto derby, strengthening their title defence and increasing the pressure on Mamelodi Sundowns.

Abdeslam Ouaddou had called for greater commitment and a more ruthless conversion of chances in his programme notes, and his players delivered the result despite a below-par first-half performance.

The match was watched by French and Arsenal legend Thierry Henry, who was introduced before kick-off. He saw an entertaining, end-to-end contest, as well as an overzealous supporter running on to the pitch during the closing stages.

Pirates could have won by a wider margin after dominating for long periods following the interval, but they missed several opportunities and lacked the killer instinct Ouaddou had demanded in the build-up.

Chiefs had made the stronger start and created the better early chances. Wandile Duba was released by Mduduzi Shabalala’s defence-splitting pass inside five minutes, but Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine reacted sharply to deny him. Duba and Pule Mmodi then missed further openings.

Referee Luxolo Badi booked Reeve Frosler after eight minutes when the Kaizer Chiefs defender was frustrated by Mfundo Vilakazi in an early individual battle. Badi was also involved in a controversial moment after 23 minutes when he allowed play to continue after Pirates forward Yanela Mbuthuma went down under pressure in the penalty area.

Mbuthuma recovered quickly and soon found himself in the Chiefs box again. His shot struck Thabo Moloisane and deflected into the unguarded net to give Pirates the lead.

Chiefs responded when Chaine spilled the ball into Mmodi’s path, allowing the forward to score from close range. However, Pirates restored their advantage after winning possession in midfield and launching a swift attack. Thapelo Mokobodi unselfishly set up Tshepang Moremi, who is enjoying a strong run across all competitions.

Pirates improved considerably after the break, although their lack of efficiency prevented them from turning their dominance into a larger victory.

Ouaddou began with experienced players including Chaine, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Deon Hotto, Thalente Mbatha, Moremi and Mbuthuma, while also rewarding the form of emerging talents Lebone Seema, Nkosikhona Ndaba, Sipmphiwe Selepe, Simphiwe Masilela and Mokobodi.

With Kamogelo Sebelebele and Bulelani Sigomoshe unavailable, Hotto was used at right-back and struggled to offer much going forward against Paseka Mako. Gamphani Lungu replaced Ndaba at half-time, allowing Hotto to return to left-back, where his influence improved.

Fernando da Cruz selected a highly experienced Chiefs side, including Brandon Petersen, Thabo Moloisane, Frosler, Mako, Lebohang Maboe and Sibongiseni Mthethwa. The coach also fielded attackers Mmodi, Vilakazi, Duba and Mduduzi Shabalala, but his side could not end a run of seven league derbies without victory against Pirates.

Pirates had won five and drawn one of the previous six league meetings. Their momentum is growing, although their squad depth will be tested by commitments in the Champions league, Carling Knockout Cup and Nedbank Cup, as well as the defence of their league title.

Chiefs, meanwhile, are falling behind AmaZulu and Milford FC. Da Cruz must find greater consistency if they are to achieve their target of finishing at least third and returning to the Confederation Cup.