Orlando Pirates delivered a ruthless attacking performance, thrashing TS Galaxy 6-0 in a Betway Premiership clash, with Relebohile Mofokeng stealing the show with a superb hat-trick.
Pirates made changes to their starting line-up, recalling Nemtajela and Andre de Jong following their 1-1 draw against Siwelele FC.
The match got off to a disastrous start for the hosts, as defender Lentswe Motaung was sent off early for fouling Tshepang Moremi, who was through on goal. Pirates capitalised immediately, asserting control from the outset.
Mofokeng opened the scoring in the 6th minute, setting the tone for what would become a difficult afternoon for TS Galaxy. The Buccaneers dominated possession and dictated the tempo, keeping the home side pinned in their own half.
The pressure paid off again in the 41st minute when Tshepang Moremi doubled the lead after a well-timed assist from Deon Hotto. Just three minutes later, TS Galaxy’s problems worsened when Mbunjana scored an own goal, handing Pirates a comfortable 3-0 lead at halftime.
Reflecting on the first-half setback, TS Galaxy’s head coach admitted the early red card played a major role:
To concede six goals is unacceptable. We need to improve defensively. What happened early in the match, including unnecessary tackles, made things difficult. Orlando Pirates have quality players and know how to use a numerical advantage. We must stay humble and learn from our mistakes.
TS Galaxy made several changes at the start of the second half in an attempt to regain control, but Pirates remained relentless. Mofokeng struck again in the 53rd minute, finishing off a move created by Oswin Appollis to make it 4-0.
Pirates continued their dominance, with Kamogelo Sebelebele adding a fifth goal in the 64th minute after a well-worked attacking move involving Nemtajela. Mofokeng then completed his hat-trick in the 69th minute, capping off a brilliant individual display and putting the result beyond doubt.
Speaking after the match, Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou praised his team’s overall performance and mentality:
I think it’s more than a reaction, it’s a fantastic game for us. It’s a very good answer to those who doubt the team’s commitment. I always say that nobody in our team steps onto the pitch intending to lose or draw.
Despite multiple substitutions, TS Galaxy struggled to cope with Pirates’ intensity, movement, and clinical finishing, as the visitors maintained control until the final whistle to seal an emphatic 6-0 victory.
Both teams now head into the international break, giving them time to regroup before returning to domestic action. Orlando Pirates will aim to carry this momentum into their next fixture, while TS Galaxy will look to bounce back when the league resumes.