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Orlando Pirates have moved to the top of the South African Premiership after sealing a 2-0 victory away to Durban City on Saturday.
Goals from Evidence Makgopa and Patrick Maswanganyi ensured the Soweto giants claimed all three points in the Indian Ocean city, lifting them above long-time champions Mamelodi Sundowns at the summit of the table.
Makgopa opened the scoring in the 23rd minute before Maswanganyi wrapped up the win in the 77th, taking both players’ league tallies to three goals for the season.
With the result, Pirates now have 28 points from 12 matches, three more than Sundowns, in Africa’s richest domestic league, where the champions pocket a 20 million rand prize.
The Buccaneers’ latest success followed another 2-0 victory over Chippa United earlier in the week, while Sundowns were returning from Algeria after a CAF Champions League fixture.
Pirates’ early exit from continental competition at the hands of Congolese side Saint-Eloi Lupopo may yet work in their favour, with many observers suggesting the reduced schedule could help them focus fully on the title race.
Sundowns have dominated the league in recent years, clinching eight consecutive championships, often by wide margins. However, the Pirates’ squad depth and improved form suggest this season could be far more competitive.
Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou was pleased with his side’s response after the break. “We were much better in the second half than the first against Durban thanks to some tactical adjustments,” he said.
Beyond topping the league table, the Moroccan has also already led Pirates to an early-season cup triumph, and they will face Marumo Gallants in the League Cup final on December 6 as they chase further silverware this campaign.
