Orlando Pirates vs Marumo Gallants ‣ All Goals & Highlights ‣ Nedbank Cup 2024/25

In a thrilling Nedbank Cup showdown that had fans on the edge of their seats from the first whistle to the last, Orlando Pirates showcased their class and dominance as they overcame a determined Marumo Gallants side with a powerful performance that will be remembered throughout the 2024/25 season.

The Buccaneers came into the match with high expectations and a clear intent to make a strong statement in the prestigious cup competition.

After a somewhat inconsistent run in recent league fixtures, this game was seen as an opportunity for the team to reaffirm their identity and hunger for silverware.

Marumo Gallants, on the other hand, entered the fixture as underdogs but with the spirit and resilience that have made them known for giant-killing acts in past tournaments.

The match began with a burst of energy, as both sides looked to assert early control.

Orlando Pirates, playing in front of a raucous crowd at home, wasted no time in pushing forward.

Their attacking intent was rewarded in the 9th minute when a well-timed through ball found striker Zakhele Lepasa, who coolly slotted the ball into the bottom corner past the Gallants goalkeeper.

It was the kind of finish that sets the tone, and the Pirates fans erupted with joy.

Gallants responded admirably, refusing to be intimidated by the early goal.

For much of the first half, they matched Pirates in midfield and created a few half-chances of their own, with their most dangerous moment coming in the 23rd minute when midfielder Katlego Otladisa fired a rocket from outside the box that forced an excellent save from Sipho Chaine.

That moment reminded Pirates that the game was far from over and that Gallants were here to fight.

Despite the resistance, Pirates continued to show why they are considered one of South Africa’s most dangerous teams in cup competitions.

The midfield trio of Miguel Timm, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo, and Kabelo Dlamini began to control the tempo, breaking down Gallants’ attempts to build momentum and launching rapid counterattacks.

In the 37th minute, Pirates doubled their lead in spectacular fashion.

A short corner routine caught the Gallants defense off guard, with Thabiso Monyane delivering a pinpoint cross that found the head of Innocent Maela.

The captain rose highest and powered the ball into the net, giving the Buccaneers a crucial 2-0 advantage just before halftime.

Coming out for the second half, Gallants made a few tactical changes and brought on fresh legs in hopes of turning the tide.

Their efforts paid off in the 52nd minute when they pulled one back through a brilliant piece of individual skill from Ranga Chivaviro.

Receiving the ball on the edge of the area, Chivaviro turned sharply and unleashed a curling effort that found the top corner, sending a wave of belief through the visiting team’s bench.

That goal brought a new edge to the match.

Suddenly, the game opened up with end-to-end action, and the next 15 minutes were filled with high-intensity challenges, ambitious shots, and crowd eruptions at every turn.

Pirates, feeling the pressure, responded with professionalism and composure, refusing to be rattled.

In the 70th minute, the home side restored their two-goal cushion after a brilliant solo run from Monnapule Saleng, who danced past two defenders and set up Thembinkosi Lorch with a perfectly weighted pass.

Lorch made no mistake, blasting the ball into the roof of the net to make it 3-1 and effectively put the game beyond Gallants’ reach.

But the action didn’t stop there.

Pirates continued pressing forward with flair and confidence.

Their pace on the wings became a nightmare for the Gallants defense, and in the 81st minute, the Buccaneers added a fourth goal.

This time, it was substitute Evidence Makgopa who got on the scoresheet, finishing off a slick team move with a clinical low shot into the bottom corner.

As the final whistle approached, Pirates managed the game well, slowing down the tempo and protecting their lead while still looking dangerous on the counter.

Gallants, to their credit, never gave up and pushed for a late consolation, but the Pirates’ backline remained organized and focused.

When the referee blew for full time, the scoreboard read 4-1 in favor of Orlando Pirates—a scoreline that reflected not just their attacking power, but their growing maturity and tactical discipline.

It was a complete performance from the Soweto giants, and a strong statement of intent as they progress further in the Nedbank Cup.

The standout performers on the night included Zakhele Lepasa, who opened the scoring and remained a constant threat throughout; Monnapule Saleng, whose creativity and pace unlocked the Gallants defense multiple times; and Miguel Timm, who controlled the midfield with authority.

Coach Jose Riveiro praised the team’s performance in his post-match comments, noting the improvement in finishing and overall team cohesion.

For Marumo Gallants, the result was a harsh lesson in finishing and defensive concentration.

Despite showing moments of promise and individual brilliance, they were undone by Pirates’ superior execution and relentless attack.

Still, their journey in the competition showed heart, and they’ll take valuable lessons into their next fixtures.

As the Nedbank Cup continues to unfold, Orlando Pirates have now positioned themselves as one of the teams to beat.

With momentum on their side and a squad brimming with confidence, their fans will be dreaming of more silverware—and performances like this one show that it may not be far off.