Tshegofatso Mabasa etched his name into the Nedbank Cup record books with a superb hat-trick, propelling Orlando Pirates into the quarterfinals with a convincing 3-1 victory over Motsepe Foundation Championship side Baroka FC at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
From the outset, Pirates asserted their dominance, dictating possession and tempo. Baroka FC, as anticipated, adopted a defensive strategy, employing a low block and seeking to exploit any openings on the counter-attack.
In the 21st minute, Mabasa signaled his intent with a powerful volley attempt, followed by Patrick Maswanganyi testing Baroka goalkeeper Malcom Jacobs, who reacted sharply to deny Pirates the opener.
MABASA A HERO AS PIRATES MARCH TO THE NEDBANK CUP QUARTERS
However, Mabasa rectified his earlier miss in the 30th minute, calmly slotting home Deon Hotto's precise cross to break the deadlock.
Baroka attempted to mount a response, venturing forward with increased purpose, but it was Pirates who struck again on the cusp of halftime.
Mabasa doubled the lead, capitalizing on a perfectly weighted cross from Patrick Maswanganyi to complete a well-worked attacking move.
Pirates entered the halftime interval with a comfortable 2-0 advantage, leaving Baroka with a significant challenge in the second half.
The pattern of play continued after the restart, with Pirates maintaining control. Maswanganyi came close to extending their lead in the 52nd minute, forcing another impressive save from Jacobs.
Moments later, substitute Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo was unfortunate to see his effort strike the woodwork, with Jacobs beaten.
The pressure finally told as Pirates extended their lead. Mabasa completed his hat-trick, finishing off another incisive attacking move from the Buccaneers.
While Sydney Malivha managed to pull a goal back for Baroka in the 75th minute, it proved to be a mere consolation as Orlando Pirates secured their passage to the Nedbank Cup quarterfinals.
