Orlando Pirates Football Club was crowned 2023 Nedbank Cup Champions, following the 2-1 win over Sekhukhune United Football Club at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday night.
The game commenced with both teams showcasing their attacking skills, while the host applied pressure with early possession of the ball, Babina Noko looked to exploit The Buccaneers in transition moments. Babina Noko took the lead in the 12th minute when Sibusiso Vilakazi opened the scoring.
With 20 minutes of football played in the first half, Pirates came close to finding an equalizer, However, Babina Noko’s brave defending saw them block numerous attempts at goal inside the 18-yard area.
With half an hour mark approaching, Babina Noko covered more ground than their opponents in attempting to win the ball back.
However, The Buccaneers drew level on the stroke of halftime after the referee spotted an infringement inside the Sekhukhune United FC’s box. Tapelo Xoki calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net.
Sekhukhune United FC got the second half on the front foot and created numerous goalscoring opportunities but failed to make the most of their chances.
Nonetheless, Orlando Pirates had the last say after taking the lead in the 94th minute, following a swift passing move inside Babina Noko’s half, Monnapule Saleng’s cross found Terrence Dzvukamanja, who guided the ball home with the slightest of touches.
In the end, Orlando Pirates were crowned Nedbank Cup champions at Loftus Versfeld.
The game brings to an end the 2022/23 campaign with Babina Noko narrowly missing out on the historic moment.
XI: Sangare, Ntiya –Ntiya, Cardoso, Gyimah, Mobbie, Seabi (Mncube 45’), Mokotjo, Vilakazi (Mahlangu 62’), Letsoalo (Mabasa 98’), Mokwana (Morris 82’), Ohizu
