CAPE TOWN – Orlando Pirates strengthened their title push with a commanding 2-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC in a Betway Premiership clash at Athlone Stadium on Tuesday night.
Both sides entered the fixture having played 26 matches, with Pirates sitting second on the log and chasing leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.
The Buccaneers knew that maximum points in Cape Town were vital to keep their title hopes alive, while Stellenbosch were desperate for points in their push for a top-eight finish.
The first half was tightly contested, but Pirates made their breakthrough in the 42nd minute. Striker Evidence Makgopa rose highest in the box to head home a precise delivery from Patrick Maswanganyi following a set-piece, placing the ball into the bottom right corner to make it 1-0.
Just before the break, Pirates doubled their advantage in stoppage time. Maswanganyi produced a moment of quality, curling a left-footed strike from outside the box into the bottom left corner in the 45+2 minute to give the visitors a strong 2-0 lead at halftime.
Stellenbosch attempted to respond in the second half, but struggled to break down a disciplined Pirates defence.
The Buccaneers managed the game effectively, controlling possession and limiting clear chances for the home side.
Despite Stellies’ efforts, no further goals followed as Pirates comfortably saw out the match to secure a valuable 2-0 win, moving them within two points of Sundowns in the title race.
☠️FT | @StellenboschFC 0 – 2 @orlandopirates
🥅 Makgopa 42', Maswanganyi 45+2'
⚫⚪🔴⭐#MatchDay#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/toFaoanTRQ
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) May 5, 2026
Image: @orlandopirates/x.com
