PSL
Orlando Pirates displayed the fire that their “Fak’uGesi” mantra demands, as two second-half strikes from Tshepang Moremi and Evidence Makgopa dismantled Magesi FC in the quarter-final of the Carling Knockout Cup, booking their semi-final place with a 2-1 victory at Orlando Stadium.
At Orlando Stadium on Tuesday, the Orlando Pirates brought energy and intent to their quarter-final clash against Magesi FC, living up to their “Fak’uGesi” battle cry evening. Despite the chilly Johannesburg night and a packed stadium of expectant fans, the Ghosts delivered when it mattered most.
After a scoreless first half in which the Pirates dominated territory and created early threats, most notably through striker Yanela Mbuthuma’s header and shot hitting targets but not finding the net, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side broke the deadlock early in the second half.
Tshepang Moremi struck in the 50th minute with a curling attempt from the edge of the box that sailed into the top corner, giving the home crowd the release they had been waiting for. Later, Evidence Makgopa iced the result in the 85th minute, finishing from close range to seal the two-goal cushion.
Magesi pulled one back in the dying minutes through Lehlohonolo Mokone, in what was a consolation goal, meaning the match ended 2-1.
For the Pirates, the victory offers more than progress in the competition: it sends a message. After their early exit from the CAF Champions League, they needed a statement of ambition and resilience. With this result they move into the semi-final stage where they will face either Stellenbosch FC, Richards Bay FC or Golden Arrows.
Remaining mindful of their upcoming Betway Premiership fixture away to Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday, the Pirates will hope to carry this momentum forward. A win in that fixture would see them level on points with the log leaders, which only adds to the significance of this Carling Knockout success.
