Orlando Pirates edge Stellenbosch to claim first Betway Premiership win of the season

Orlando Pirates edge Stellenbosch to claim first Betway Premiership win of the season

Orlando Pirates managed to win their first match of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership following a 1-0 victory over Stellenbosch at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday.

The Buccaneers started brightly with new recruit Oswin Appollis hitting the post in the fourth minute but failed to penetrate the resolute defence until close to half-time. 

However, a swift move from the back led to in-form winger Kamogelo Sebelebelebe being afforded an opportunity to shoot from just outside the box, hitting the back of the net and providing the Soweto giants a slender lead heading into half-time.

The second half provided a cagey affair, with the home side attempting some speculative efforts before Stellenbosch gained the dominance, eventually forcing their first corner kick of the match in the 59th minute.

Both teams resorted to a disciplined approach with few clear-cut chances being afforded to either side, with only one tame shot being registered on target by the Western Cape side until the end of the match.

The result sees Orlando Pirates move into 11th position on the league table whilst Stellenbosch go down to 14th spot following three rounds of matches. 

Both teams will be participating in the second legs of the MTN8 semi-finals this weekend, with AmaBhakaniya set to travel to Tshwane to face Mamelodi Sundowns, whilst Stellies will be looking to preserve their 2-0 first leg win against Sekhukhune United.

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