PSL
Orlando Pirates climbed to second on the Premiership log with a 3-1 win over Golden Arrows, extending their league unbeaten run to eight. An early own goal set the tone, and substitutes sealed the victory. With the Carling Knockout semi-final looming, the mood around Pirates is buoyant as they aim to end a 14-year title drought.
Orlando Pirates showed a champion’s composure and intent on Wednesday night, sweeping aside Golden Arrows 3–1 at a buzzing King Zwelithini Stadium to climb to second on the Premiership table. The victory, built on relentless pressing and tactical precision, stretched their unbeaten run to eight matches — a statement that their ambitions this season extend well beyond domestic cups.
The tone was set early when Arrows defender Ayanda Jiyane, under pressure from Nkosikhona Ndaba’s low cross, sliced the ball into his own net. From there, Pirates dictated the rhythm, suffocating Arrows’ passing lanes and controlling possession with ease. The home side’s early spark dimmed after an injury to Sihle Nduli disrupted their structure, allowing Pirates to dictate the pace through the midfield.
Arrows tried to fight back after the break and briefly found hope when Thokozani Khumalo capitalised on a defensive lapse to make it 1–1. But that was as close as they got. Pirates’ bench responded with the kind of depth that separates title contenders from hopefuls — second-half substitutes Yanela Mbuthuma and Relebohile Mofokeng combined brilliantly to restore the lead and then seal the result.
Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, recently named Coach of the Month, praised his side’s hunger and adaptability. “What makes this group special is how they respond under pressure. They don’t panic, they execute,” he said after the match.
For Arrows, who came into the fixture riding a wave of confidence after a string of solid results, the loss was a harsh reminder of the fine margins at the top of the table. Despite their discipline, they struggled to cope with Pirates’ tempo and transitions.
