Orlando Pirates hosted Polokwane City in a sold-out daytime clash at Esgodini, securing a 2-0 victory to advance to the MTN8 semifinals in their first official match of the new season.
The Buccaneers faithful came out in full force to support their team, creating an electrifying atmosphere at Orlando Stadium. The match also marked the debut for Pirates’ new coach and several new signings.
Oswin Appollis, one of the standout new additions to the squad, was the star of the show. Facing his former club, Polokwane City, Appollis opened the scoring but chose not to celebrate out of respect. Later, he earned a penalty after being fouled inside the box.
Patrick Maswanganyi stepped up and calmly slotted the penalty to make it 2-0. Appollis’ excellent performance earned him the Man of the Match award on his Pirates debut.
Polokwane City bow out of the tournament, while Orlando Pirates march confidently into the semifinals.