Orlando Pirates’ goalscorers in the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs were also responsible for the majority of Bafana Bafana’s goals at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Of the six goals scored by Bafana at the tournament, four came from Pirates players. Burnley striker Lyle Foster netted the other two.
The Buccaneers claimed derby bragging rights this past weekend with a dominant 3-0 victory over their rivals at the FNB Stadium.
Tshepang Moremi, Oswin Appollis and Evidence Makgopa were all on target in what turned out to be a one-sided encounter.
Although Bafana bowed out in the round of 16 at AFCON, the tournament experience appears to have significantly benefited the Orlando Pirates contingent.
When Hugo Broos named his squad, nine Bucs players were included in the final list. Among them, Moremi and Appollis stood out with their attacking contributions.
Orlando Pirates’ Goals at AFCON
Moremi opened his AFCON account in Bafana’s thrilling 3-2 win over Zimbabwe. Appollis was even more influential, scoring twice, once against Angola and converting a penalty against Zimbabwe.
Meanwhile, Ngwana Sesi grabbed a consolation goal in the 2-1 defeat to Cameroon.
Their confidence was clearly visible in the Soweto Derby. Moremi broke the deadlock inside five minutes with a deflected effort.
Just before half-time, Appollis calmly slotted past Bruce Bvuma to double the lead. Makgopa then sealed the emphatic victory with a powerful header in the second half.
If there were any lingering doubts about Broos’ faith in Orlandp Pirates players, Saturday’s performance provided the perfect response.