Orlando Pirates successfully defended their MTN8 title on Saturday with a 3-1 win over Stellenbosch in an exciting finale staged at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
While Stellies gave a good account of themselves, they were undone by what many fans feel was poor officiating by Abongile Tom who allowed a quick restart in favour of the champions even when it was out of range.
The Buccaneers are now unbeaten in 11 games played across all competitions this season while Stellenbosch continue showing their abilities. Have a look at the main eight lessons we can take from the Saturday fixture.
Saleng makes his Bafana case
Monnapule Saleng was a doubt for this weekend's assignment owing to an injury. However, he passed a late fitness test to start the game.
He was a danger throughout the evening and was rewarded with an equaliser that set the momentum for his team.
The winger has now scored five goals and provided an assist in 10 games for Bucs, begging the question why Hugo Broos didn't consider him for the forthcoming 2025 Afcon qualifiers.
Maela is out of place but Sesane is the real deal
Captain Innocent Maela got his chance to start after an injury to Olisa Ndah. He was paired with Thabiso Sesane at the heart of Pirates defense, but things did not go as planned. Maela struggled and was eventually replaced.
Thabiso Sesane was outstanding and had to put in an extra shift to cover his captain, eventually winning the Man of the Match Award. It explains his limited game time at the club.
In Mojela, Stellies have a gem
For the sixth time in nine games across all competitions, Lehlohonolo Mojela has had a positive impact on Stellenbosch.
The attacking midfielder was all over the place in the Orlando Pirates' third and was rewarded with a beautiful goal. He will play a crucial role in helping the Steve Barker-led side achieve their objectives this season.
Mbatha's Bafana blow?
Thalente Mbatha has been outstanding for both his club and the national team. He has already played 10 out of possible 11 games for the Soweto Giants this season. Mbatha never tires and has the motivation to win.
The former SuperSport United midfielder scored two crucial goals for Bafana Bafana that helped them claim four points in Group K of the 2025 Afcon qualifiers. Coach Hugo Broos, surely hopes the injury suffered is not serious.
Stellenbosch are on the right track
Last season, Steve Barker helped Stellies win their first-ever major trophy, the Carling Knockout. Despite losing some key players this season, the tactician still managed to help his team reach the MTN8 final.
Questionable officiating spoiled the party, but Stellenbosch are getting it right; they looked ready and comfortable against Pirates.
Mofokeng, the real deal?
At just 19, Relebohile Mofokeng is delivering way past his years; it was his quick thinking and the referee's mistake that allowed him to assist Tshegofatso Mabasa score an important second goal in the stoppages.
He then rounded the goalkeeper and defender to score a beautiful third goal to help the Jose Riveiro-led team comfortably win the game. Last season, he scored five goals and provided six assists in the 38 games across all competitions, but he has three goals and as many assists in 10 outings in the ongoing campaign.
Pirates mentality monsters
It is not easy for a team to get back from a goal down and show composure right to the end of the game.
First, Saleng scores a minute to the half-time break to ensure it ends 1-1. Then in the stoppages, Mabasa and Mofokeng delivers.
It is a perfect mentality from the players, and it shows their desire and hunger to win and fight up to the last minute.
Terrible refereeing, time for VAR’s introduction?
Exactly a week ago, the fans complained about officiating in Mamelodi Sundowns' controversial 2-1 Premier Soccer League win over Kaizer Chiefs. Once again, Abongile Tom allowed Pirates to score a controversial second goal that changed the dynamic of the match.
Maybe the VAR could have intervened and helped him change his mind about Mabasa's strike at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. The technology is badly needed in Mzansi.
