Moremi Delivers Again as Pirates Prove Their Cup Pedigree. Image credit: Orlando Pirates FC.
(The Post News) – After a 1-0 victory over Richards Bay at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday night, Orlando Pirates advanced to the Carling Knockout Cup final by Tshepang Moremi.
The 25-year-old winger, who was already a hero in the MTN8 final, performed admirably once more. In addition to propelling the Buccaneers back into their first domestic cup final since 2019, his spectacular first-half goal solidified his developing reputation as a big-game player.
Orlando Pirates Clinch Carling Knockout Final Spot with Moremi’s Decisive Strike.
Pirates made a strong start in front of a passionate Durban crowd of more than 40,000 supporters after defeating Golden Arrows midweek. The team appeared sharper and more balanced right away when head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou made two significant lineup changes, substituting Lebone Seema and Thabiso Lebitso with Deano Van Rooyen and Mbekezeli Mbokazi.
After a period of calm, controlled possession, they made their breakthrough right before halftime. Sipho Mbule, a key player in midfield, anticipated Moremi’s move and skillfully executed a diagonal ball. Moremi’s second touch, a low, drilled finish into the bottom corner that left the goalie stranded, was pure venom. His first touch was silk.
Richards Bay did not back down. Recalling last year’s victory over Pirates in the same competition, co-coach Ronnie Gabriel encouraged his team to advance. Nkosinathi Sibisi and Tapelo Xoki held solid at the back despite attempts by Gabadinho Mhango and Knox Mutizwa to breach the defense.
Richards Bay gave the warned Mhango new life at halftime by substituting Lundi Mahala. To the annoyance of the home crowd, referee Xolani Kwinda let play on after the young player clashed with goalie Sipho Chaine shortly after the hour mark, causing difficulties for the Pirates defence and almost earning a penalty.
Pirates relied on their history of knockouts and remained composed under duress. Cameron Dansin was brought in to tighten midfield control and provide vigor to the final moments. The Buccaneers could handle the game with maturity thanks to his deft link-up play and smart pressing.
In the final moments, Richards Bay pushed numbers forward, but Ouaddou’s troops held firm. With composed authority, Xoki and Sibisi dominated the defence, effortlessly breaking up counters and clearing crosses.
The Pirates celebrated with quiet confidence when the final whistle blew, booking another championship game in a season that was already full of promise.
Though disappointed, Richards Bay did not give up. They received praise from their devoted supporters after matching the Pirates step for step.
For the Buccaneers, the evening served as a timely reminder of what makes them South Africa’s knockout football champions: discipline, brutality, and unwavering composure under pressure.
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