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Orlando Pirates wrapped up their 2024/25 campaign with a 1–1 draw against Magesi FC at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday.
Patrick Maswanganyi gave the hosts an early lead, but Edmore Chirambadare equalised before halftime to earn the visitors a share of the spoils - a result that sees Magesi finish 12th in the Betway Premiership, just behind Chippa United on goal difference.
Ncikazi, who stepped in for the final four games of the season, guided the Buccaneers to two draws and two wins, collecting eight points and offering a glimpse of stability at the helm.
Pirates started brightly and nearly opened the scoring inside the first minute, with Maswanganyi flashing a shot wide after being set up by Boitumelo Radiopane. The breakthrough came in the sixth minute through a clever set-piece routine - Relebohile Mofokeng played a short free-kick to Maswanganyi, who drilled a low shot past Elvis Chipezeze from the edge of the box.
The Soweto giants remained dangerous on the counter, and Sipho Chaine sparked a quick transition in the 17th minute that ended with Mohau Nkota drawing a save from Chipezeze.
Magesi found their rhythm midway through the half and capitalised on a defensive error in the 32nd minute. Nkosinathi Sibisi's slip allowed Thabang Sibanyoni to slide a pass through to Chirambadare, who coolly slotted home the equaliser.
Pirates pushed hard in the second half and created a flurry of chances, with Nkota and Innocent Maela both going close. Chipezeze remained a thorn in the Buccaneers' side, producing a string of crucial saves - including a diving stop to deny Tshegofatso Mabasa's header and a sharp reaction save from Nkota in the 72nd minute.
Despite sustained pressure, Pirates couldn't find a winner. Mofokeng had a late opportunity in the 88th minute but failed to test the Magesi keeper after being set up by Mabasa.
The result concludes a rollercoaster season for the Sea Robbers, who will now head into the offseason with questions around the permanent managerial position - and renewed hope sparked by a late run of form under Ncikazi.
