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Appollis and Mofokeng stunners fire Pirates back to the top

Posted on April 18, 2026
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Orlando Pirates have leapfrogged Mamelodi Sundowns to take control of the title race. The three points move Pirates to the top of the table with 58 points, leaving Sundowns in second place with 56 points.

While Pirates hold the advantage for now, Kabo Yellow still have two games in hand, ensuring the battle for the championship remains on a knife-edge.

PIRATES TAKE CONTROL WITH FIRST-HALF FINISHING

The game started at a high tempo. Oswin Appollis had the first real effort in the 7th minute, forcing a save from range. AmaZulu almost hit back immediately when Athini Maqokolo went on a strong solo run, beating two defenders before curling just wide.

Also read: Kaizer Chiefs demolish Magesi FC to strengthen top three push

Pirates took the lead in the 13th minute. Tshepang Moremi delivered a perfect cross and Yanela Mbuthuma met it with a powerful header to make it 1-0.

Before halftime, Pirates doubled their advantage. Appollis produced a brilliant turn outside the box and finished it off with a clean strike into the bottom corner to make it 2-0.

AmaZulu struggled to recover from that blow, with Pirates managing the game well and keeping control of possession going into the break.

Also read: Orlando Pirates sign teenage winger, to join after matric

RELEBOHILE MOFOKENG WRAPS IT UP

In the second half, Pirates kept control. In the 58th minute, Relebohile Mofokeng added the third with a strong finish from inside the area to put the game beyond reach.

Mofokeng had a chance for a second in the 74th minute from the penalty spot, but his effort came off the crossbar, keeping the score at 3-0.

IS THE BETWAY PREMIERSHIP TITLE NOW SUNDOWNS’ TO LOSE?

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