PIRATES MAKE HISTORY, LUTHULI AND RADIOPANE FIRE BUCS TO CARLING BLACK LABEL CHAMPIONS CUP GLORY

Orlando Pirates have made history as the first team to win the Carling Black Label Cup, defeating Carling Black Label All Stars 2-0 in a thrilling final at the Durban stadium.

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief of The Azanian

Orlando Pirates have made history as the first team to win the Carling Black Label Cup, defeating Carling Black Label All Stars 2-0 in a thrilling final at the Durban stadium. Sifiso Luthuli and Boitumelo Radiopane were the heroes of the day, scoring the goals that secured the Bucs' victory.

Luthuli, who was set up by Deon Hotto's precision pass, expertly lobbed the ball past the All Stars goalkeeper to open the scoring in the 65th minute. Radiopane sealed the win with a low finish from a tight angle in the 80th minute.

The Bucs' defense held strong to secure the win, with goalkeeper Melusi Buthelezi making some crucial saves to ensure the Bucs held on to their lead.

With this win, Pirates have added another trophy to their cabinet, the Carling Black Label Champions Cup, and a prize money of R2 million. This is in addition to the R6.6 million they won earlier by winning the Carling Black Label Cup, making their total winnings R8.6 million in just seven days.

Pirates' coach, Hugo Broos, praised the team's resilience and determination, saying, "This is a special moment for the players and the club. We worked hard for this, and it's a great feeling to be the first team to win the Carling Black Label Champions Cup."

MATCH STATISTICS:

- Orlando Pirates: Buthelezi, Ndah, Sesane, Seema, Van Rooyen, Makhaula, Dansin, Maswanganyi, Mbuthuma

- All Stars: N. Petersen, Sithole, Nkabinde, Khonyane, Langa, Mabaso, Vilakazi, Allende, Ndlondlo, Hlongwane, Sales

GOALS:

- Sifiso Luthuli (65')

- Boitumelo Radiopane (80')

The Azanian congratulates Orlando Pirates on their historic victory and wishes them all the best for their future endeavors.