Orlando Pirates lift Carling Knockout Cup after extra-time win over Marumo Gallants

The decisive moment arrived just before the end of the first half of extra time, when Relebohile Mofokeng broke the deadlock in a match that had remained goalless through 90 tense minutes.

The victory adds to Pirates' MTN8 triumph from September and delivers only the second league cup in the club's history, their first since defeating Bidvest Wits in the 2011 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, the Buccaneers continue to build momentum, and his tweaks to the starting line-up appeared justified on the night. 

Ouaddou brought in Lebone Seema, Makhehlene Makhaula, and Oswin Appollis, replacing Nkosinathi Sibisi, Patrick Maswanganyi, and Tshepang Moremi.

Gallants, meanwhile, also reshuffled their side with Washington Arubi, Mpho Chabatsane, and Christopher Sithole coming in. 

Arubi's difficult start nearly gifted Pirates an opener in the second minute when he spilled a routine ball, forcing Marvin Sikhosana to clear off the line to deny Evidence Makgopa. Both teams needed time to settle, with clear chances scarce early on.

As the match progressed, Pirates asserted control by dominating possession and pressing Gallants deep into their own half. Each foray into the final third brought danger for Gallants, although they initially held firm.

The second half featured a series of midfield battles as both sides attempted to build momentum, but Gallants remained largely pinned back and rarely troubled the Pirates defence.

Once Mofokeng broke the deadlock, Gallants struggled to mount any meaningful response. With their resistance finally breached, they could not find a comeback, leaving Pirates to lift the Carling Knockout Cup and celebrate another significant milestone 

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