Did Mbuthuma escape red card? Pirates striker captured kicking Sundowns star [VIDEO]

Did Orlando Pirates striker Yanela Mbuthuma escape a red card in the MTN8 final against Memelodi Sundowns?

That is the question among fans after an online video of an incident of violent conduct that was not noticed by match officials.

Mbuthuma was on the losing side as Abdeslam Ouaddou’s team suffered a 2-0 loss in the final, missing a chance to make it a record five straight titles.

Mamelodi Sundowns celebrate MTN8 glory. Image: Mamelodi Sundowns

Teboho Mokoena’s first half goal and Iqraam Rayners’ late penalty sealed the win for Miguel Cardoso’s team at the Moses Mabhida Stadium as Sundowns ended their five-year wait for the MTN8.

Mbuthuma captured kicking Matthews

However, during the match, which had tempers flare on some occasions, Mbuthuma was captured kicking Tashreeq Matthews in an incident that was not noticed.

PSL must fine Mbuthuma.

He almost ended Matthews career. pic.twitter.com/DqkZ0FUIwD
— CAFCL Tshampion ⭐️⭐️ (@tumeloditle) October 10, 2026

The Pirates striker was on the ground receiving treatment after a bad tackle from Khulumani Ndamane and he retaliated by unleashing a low kick at Matthews, hitting the Sundowns forward’s ankle which would have earned him a straight red card and a suspension of multiple matches.

However, the incident was not noticed by the referees although there is a clip that has gone viral online about the incident.

Mbuthuma’s behaviour has been condemned by fans online with calls for the PSL to review the clip and punish the Pirates striker.

Orlando Pirates striker Yanela Mbuthuma tackles Marcelo Allende of Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final. Image: Orlando Pirates

Fans call on PSL to punish Pirates striker

“Football is a contact sport, NOT a license to end someone’s career. If Mbuthuma’s challenge on Matthews is as bad as it looks, the PSL needs to take action. Should this be a straight suspension?” a fan posted online.

“Coach @TheRealPitso Thuggish behaviour from Mbhuthuma. He almost ended Matthew’s career with Sundowns and Bafana Bafana. Please drop him on your next selection,” another one told Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane.

Yanela Mbuthuma of Bafana Bafana, Image: SAFA

“The way players get away with reckless tackles week after week is why careers end early. Fine him and set the precedent before someone actually retires on the pitch,” pointed out another concerned fan.

“This is violence. Mbuthuma is a young player that needs to learn that actions have consequences. Can you provide leadership and punish him (fine, ban, & no national team call-up for a certain period).”

“We are seeing this nonsense from all teams every weekend. This type of ill-discipline must be punished. Also, why do we have technical staff on the pitch ? PSL must improve and review matches and issue sanctions,” observed another fan.