Marumo Gallants put big dent in Orlando Pirates' Betway Premiership title ambitions

This marked their fourth loss of the season, leaving them 18 points adrift of Sundowns, albeit with four games in hand.

Former Pirates striker Gabadinho Mhango, now 31, opened the scoring in the 15th minute, converting from a free kick.

Pirates' struggles deepened in the 74th minute when midfielder Thalente Mbatha turned the ball into his own net. Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine made several key saves, but Pirates failed to find a breakthrough.

This defeat was particularly disappointing given their dominant 8-1 victory over Gallants in the first-round fixture. Pirates have now lost to Stellenbosch FC, Cape Town City, and Sundowns this season.

While Pirates stumbled, Sundowns continued their dominant form, edging Kaizer Chiefs 1-0 at Lucas Maripe Stadium. Lucas Ribeiro's goal sealed the win, maintaining their impressive second-round run, where they have netted 16 goals in five matches, winning four of them.

Gallants' crucial victory lifts them above Royal AM (8 points), Magesi FC (17), and Richards Bay (17), boosting their survival hopes with 11 matches remaining.

Under newly appointed Moroccan coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who replaced Dan 'Dance' Malesela, Gallants looked revitalised.

Orlando Pirates must regroup quickly, with a league clash against Chippa United in Gqeberha on Wednesday, followed by a Nedbank Cup quarter-final against SuperSport United in Polokwane on Saturday. 

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