Orlando Pirates make history after winning third consecutive MTN8 title

By SABC Sport
5th October 2024

Orlando Pirates became the first team to win three consecutive MTN8 titles after two late goals saw them beat Stellenbosch 3-1 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

The match was level at 1-1 and headed for extra-time before a controversial moment in referee's stoppage time saw Pirates score and take the title.

The referee blew his whistle to stop play, waved play-on for a quick free-kick as Pirates capitalised with Stellenbosch players stopping completely and allowed Tshegofatso Mabasa to find the back of the net.

The crestfallen Stellies players then threw everything forward in search of the equaliser and Relebohile Mofokeng broke up the field to put Pirates' seal on the trophy.

The Western Cape side had taken the lead in the 12th minute when forward Lehlohonolo Mojela scored a spectacular acrobatic effort.

Stellenbosch opted to take a long throw into the penalty box and was flicked on by Andre de Jong before Mojela unleashed his strike to beat goalkeeper Sipho Chaine.

The Buccaneers equalised on the stroke of halftime when Monnapule Saleng found the back of the net, scoring after picking up the rebound after Deon Hotto's initial free0kick was kept out.

The match was fairly even in the second half and looked as though it would the full distance but Pirates took advantage of a controversial decision as Stellenbosch leave with a bitter taste.