Orlando Pirates vs Chippa United

Pirates Take Flight: Saleng's Late Wonder Seals Victory Against Chilli Boys!

In a thrilling clash, Orlando Pirates edged past Chippa United with a last-minute winner! Find out how it all unfolded!

Orlando Pirates kicked off their 2024/25 Premier Soccer League season in style, battling hard to secure a nail-biting 2-1 victory over the Chilli Boys, Chippa United, at the Orlando Stadium. Fans filled the stands, buzzing with anticipation, as the Pirates looked to make an explosive start to their campaign. The match saw both teams battle fiercely, but it was the Pirates who emerged victorious thanks to some late-game heroics.

The first half set the tone for a competitive clash, with Chippa United managing to sneak in an early lead. However, the Pirates weren't about to let their home ground advantage go to waste. After several near-misses and brilliant saves from both keepers, it was Monnapule Saleng who ultimately proved to be the knight in shining armor for the Buccaneers. His last-gasp header in the dying minutes of the game sent the home crowd into a frenzy, clinching the victory for the Pirates in dramatic fashion.

Coach Jose Riveiro expressed his delight following the game, praising the character his team showed in coming from behind to win. He emphasized that while it wasn't the prettiest performance, it showcased the determination and resilience needed to thrive in the league. Meanwhile, on the opposite bench, Chippa's coaching duo, Kwanele Kopo and Thabo September, were left with plenty to think about as they face the daunting task of bringing stability to their side, which is still reeling from their loss.

As the dust settles, it’s clear that Orlando Pirates have set the bar high for their Premiership campaign. This thrilling opener not only gave fans fireworks at the stadium but also underscored the invaluable contribution of Saleng. Did you know that since the inception of the Premier Soccer League in 1996, matches between Orlando Pirates and Chippa United have always been tightly contested? In addition, Monnapule Saleng's late-game magic has become somewhat of a trademark, leaving fans eagerly awaiting his next move!