Orlando Pirates delivered a ruthless performance to dismantle Kaizer Chiefs 3-0 in the Soweto Derby at the FNB Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Goals from Tshepang Moremi, Oswin Appollis and Evidence Makgopa sealed a dominant victory for the Buccaneers, who climbed to the summit of the Betway Premiership standings.
From the first whistle, Pirates were sharper, quicker and far more aggressive. Chiefs struggled to cope with the intensity, and this turned into one of the most one-sided Soweto Derbies in recent memory.
On another day, it could easily have ended 5-0 had Pirates been more clinical in front of goal.
Chiefs suffer another defeat to Pirates
Pirates Players Who Shone
Kamogelo Sebelebele – 10/10
Sebelebele was simply outstanding. Whether deployed at right-back or higher up the flank, his pace and decision-making completely neutralised Chiefs’ left side, effectively taking Pule Mmodi out of the game.
Pirates looked lethal down the right channel, with Sebelebele and Appollis constantly stretching the Amakhosi defence. He was unquestionably the best player on the pitch.
Tshepang Moremi – 8/10
Moremi justified his growing reputation with another electric display. His early goal settled Pirates and allowed them to dictate the tempo.
He relentlessly pressed Thabiso Monyane and could easily have walked away with a brace. His direct running and work rate kept Chiefs pinned back throughout the contest.
Thalente Mbatha – 8/10
Mbatha’s return added steel and composure to the Pirates midfield. Alongside Makhehlene Makhaula, he dominated the central areas and ensured Chiefs had little time on the ball.
He was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet after his header was ruled offside, but his influence was undeniable.
Chiefs Players Who Flopped
Bruce Bvuma – 3/10
It was a difficult afternoon for the experienced goalkeeper. Bvuma looked hesitant and struggled to command his area. His last match for Chiefs was against Pirates before he was replaced with Brandon Petersen for the remainder of the 2024/25 season.
He was fortunate Pirates’ finishing let him off the hook on several occasions. His uncertainty was best highlighted when he misjudged a delivery that nearly gifted Makgopa an easy tap-in.
Nkosiphile Ngcobo – 1/10
The derby proved overwhelming for Ngcobo. He struggled to complete basic passes and failed to impose himself in midfield.
Substituted at halftime for Thabo Cele, it was a performance that will raise serious questions about his future role in such high-pressure fixtures.
Flavio Silva – 2/10
The in-form striker endured a frustrating afternoon. While he worked hard in the first half, he faded badly after the break.
Silva failed to create meaningful openings and did not register a significant effort on goal. His growing frustration became evident as he was jeered by sections of the Amakhosi faithful before being substituted.
Pirates have now won five consecutive derbies against Chiefs in the league.
