PIRATES PREDATORS PREY ON CHIEFS IN THRILLING SOWETO DERBY

Pirates doubled their lead through Appollis, who latched onto a Mofokeng pass, and sealed the win with King Kong Evidence Makgopa's header in the 78th minute.

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

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Orlando Pirates unleashed their fury on Kaizer Chiefs, throttling them 3-0 in a pulsating Soweto derby at FNB Stadium. The Buccaneers' victory sees them reclaim the top spot in the Betway Premiership, leaving Chiefs struggling to stay in contention for a top-two finish.

Pirates' dominance was evident from the start, with Relebohile Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis, and Tshepang Moremi causing chaos in the Chiefs defence.

The first goal came when Moremi's shot deflected off Flavio Silva's legs, beating Bruce Bvuma. Pirates doubled their lead through Appollis, who latched onto a Mofokeng pass, and sealed the win with Evidence Makgopa's header in the 78th minute.

Chiefs, plagued by injuries and inconsistent performances, failed to trouble Pirates' defence, led by Nkosinathi Sibisi and Lebone Seema. Co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze will be disappointed with their team's showing, especially after making changes at halftime.

Pirates' win puts them three points clear of Mamelodi Sundowns, who play Sekhukhune United on Sunday. Chiefs, meanwhile, face an uphill battle to secure a top-two finish.

MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

- Pirates' relentless pressure pays off with 3-0 win

- Appollis and Mofokeng shine in midfield

- Chiefs' defence exposed, with Inacio Miguel and Zitha Kwinika struggling

- Evidence Makgopa's header seals the win