Orlando Pirates’ Betway Premiership title push has taken a knock after a draw with Sekhukhune United at Peter Mokaba Stadium.
The Buccaneers started on the front foot, dictating tempo and pushing Sekhukhune United deep. Tshepang Moremi created two early chances but failed to convert, still showing signs of rust following the AFCON break.
In the sixth minute, Kamohelo Sebelebele fired over from range after finding space outside the box.
ORLANDO PIRATES DOMINANCE
10–25 minutes
The game settled into a cagey affair as Sekhukhune United’s defence remained tight. The Soweto giants maintained possession but struggled to find clear openings through the middle.
25–35 minutes
Orlando Pirates continued to dominate territory and possession, yet Sekhukhune’s backline held firm, blocking shooting lanes and limiting high-quality chances.
35–45 minutes
In the 40th minute, Nkosinathi Sibisi tested goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner with a close-range effort inside the box, but the Sekhukhune shot-stopper reacted well to deny the opener.
SECOND HALF
45–60 minutes
Orlando Pirates resumed control after the restart, sustaining pressure in the attacking third. Patrick Maswanganyi attempted a long-range strike in the 55th minute, but his effort sailed over the crossbar. Babina Noka threatened briefly in the 59th minute when Keletso Makgalwa delivered a dangerous free-kick, but Sipho Chaine was well-positioned to make the save.
60–80 minutes
The best chance of the match fell to Sebelebele in the 65th minute, but his close-range effort inside the box was deflected behind for a corner.
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Orlando Pirates appealed for a penalty in the 79th minute after Oswin Appollis went down under a challenge from Leaner, but the referee waved play on.
80–90+ minutes
Sebelebele came close again in the 90th minute after a brilliant individual run, only for Tresor Tshibwabwa to block his shot.
Deep into stoppage time, Appollis unleashed a powerful effort in the 96th minute, but Leaner produced another crucial save as Sekhukhune held on under relentless pressure.
WILL ORLANDO PIRATES MANAGE TO TAKE THE BETWAY PREMIERSHIP CROWN FROM MAMELODI SUNDOWNS?
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