Orlando Pirates clinched a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby on Saturday, with Patrick Maswanganyi converting a last-gasp penalty to secure all three points in the Betway Premiership.
A tense encounter at FNB Stadium seemed destined to end in a stalemate until deep into injury time when the Buccaneers were awarded a controversial penalty. Maswanganyi stepped up with confidence, executing a bold Panenka to hand Pirates a crucial win, closing the gap to league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns to just three points.
The highly anticipated clash saw both teams create scoring opportunities, but neither could capitalize in the opening half. Chiefs nearly took the lead in the second minute when Pule Mmodi broke through on goal after a defensive error from Pirates. However, goalkeeper Sipho Chaine reacted swiftly, denying Mmodi with a well-timed challenge.
Pirates responded midway through the first half, with Relebohile Mofokeng surging into the box, only for Ignacio Miguel to clear the danger as he attempted to cut inside. In the 38th minute, Tshegofatso Mabasa had a golden chance when Chiefs goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma’s clearance fell to him, but he failed to convert.
Goalless at halftime, the Buccaneers adjusted their approach, introducing Kabelo Dlamini in place of Mohau Nkota. Chiefs made their first change shortly after, bringing on debutant Thabo Cele for George Matlou.
The second half saw Pirates increase the pressure, with Mabasa and Mofokeng both testing Bvuma. Chiefs came close in the 76th minute when Ranga Chivaviro’s shot skimmed past the post. As full-time approached, Pirates intensified their attacks, with Deon Hotto forcing a superb save from Bvuma and Makhehlene Makhaula’s header drifting just wide.
Then, in the dying moments, Mofokeng burst into the box, where Njabulo Blom’s tug on his shirt led to the referee awarding a dramatic penalty. Maswanganyi made no mistake, sealing a memorable Soweto Derby triumph for Pirates.
With this result, Chiefs remain in fifth place, nine points behind their rivals, having suffered their sixth league defeat in 15 matches. They will look to bounce back against AmaZulu on February 4, while Pirates shift focus to their next fixture against Sekhukhune United on February 5.
