In an exciting finale to the Nedbank Cup, Super Eagles defender Olisa Ndah played a crucial role as Orlando Pirates secured a 2-1 victory over Mamelodi Sundowns at the Mbombela Stadium on Saturday. This win marked Orlando Pirates’ 10th Nedbank Cup title.
Themba Zwane opened the scoring for Sundowns in the 54th minute with a tap-in after a perfect setup by Lucas Ribeiro. However, Patrick Maswanganyi equalized for Pirates from the penalty spot 11 minutes before full-time. The match’s hero, substitute Relebohile Mofokeng, scored the winning goal in stoppage time, sending Pirates fans into a frenzy.
Super Eagles defender, Olisa Ndah, who played the full 90 minutes, received a yellow card in the 49th minute but was solid throughout the match. The Pirates’ starting lineup raised eyebrows as key players Tshegofatso Mabasa, Miguel Timm, and Mofokeng were named among the substitutes. Evidence Makgopa, Thalente Mbatha, and Monnapule Saleng started and made a significant impact against Sundowns.
Makgopa’s mobility and physicality kept Sundowns’ defense busy, with Grant Kekana struggling to contain him, leading to Kekana’s halftime substitution. Saleng was a livewire on the wings and assisted the winning goal, showcasing his accurate crossing ability. Mbatha’s work rate in midfield earned him the Man of the Match award.
The Buccaneers’ midfield strategy involved pressing and hurrying Sundowns’ midfielders, limiting their ability to create chances. With solid defensive work down the center, Sundowns resorted to wing attacks, resulting in a penalty after Mudau was fouled in the box. Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine’s crucial penalty save against Ribeiro kept the scoreline level at halftime.
Coach Riveiro’s tactical changes with 19 minutes left, including the introduction of Kabelo Dlamini and match-winner Mofokeng, proved effective. Hotto’s shift to left-back neutralized Sundowns’ wing attacks, while Dlamini added an extra attacking threat.
Pirates’ mental toughness and concentration in the latter stages of the match were key to their victory. Mofokeng’s late goal, following a skillful move past Bongani Zungu and a well-placed shot past Ronwen Williams, sealed the win. The decision to start Mofokeng on the bench allowed him to study the match and become the game-changer.
