Upset in Soweto! Mamelodi Sundowns product slays Orlando Pirates as Sekhukhune United kick off Premier Soccer League season with win

Daniel Cardoso’s return to the starting XI almost backfired when, in the 10th minute, his attempted clearance from Deon Hotto’s cross struck the upright, with goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner rooted to the spot.  

The Soweto giants dominated possession throughout the first half, but their control failed to produce a breakthrough, as they were limited to long-range efforts - Sipho Mbule and Relebohile Mofokeng both coming close. The visitors, content to absorb pressure, looked to hit on the counter through the lively Keletso Makgalwa, and the sides went into the break locked at 0-0.

Early in the second half, Babina Noko struck first through Mamelodi Sundowns academy product Siphesihle Mkhize. The Sea Robbers responded by ramping up the pressure, but Sekhukhune’s defence held their ground, grinding out a 1-0 victory over Pirates to kick off their league campaign in style.

Kudos to Eric Tinkler and his Sekhukhune United side, who pulled off a shock victory at Esgodini (Orlando Stadium). They combined disciplined defending with clinical finishing to stun the hosts and set the tone for their league campaign.  

Despite it being the opening league match of the season, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou persisted with his experimental approach, fielding most of the players who featured in last weekend’s MTN8 quarter-finals. However, with several core players left out and the lineup undergoing changes, the team is clearly in a transitional phase. The lack of stability has disrupted their rhythm and cost them valuable points.  

Pirates now turn their attention to a pivotal week, facing Marumo Gallants in league action on Tuesday, 12 August, before locking horns with Mamelodi Sundowns in the first leg of the MTN8 semi-finals on Saturday, 16 August.