Late Drama Denies Orlando Pirates Victory After Jose Riveiro Exit
Orlando Pirates were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by TS Galaxy at Orlando Stadium in their first match since the sudden departure of coach José Riveiro. A late equaliser from TS Galaxy’s Mpho Mvelase snatched a valuable point for the visitors, denying the Buccaneers what would have been a fifth win in six matches against the Rockets.
Strong Start Without a Finish
Pirates started the match brightly, dominating possession and creating early opportunities. Deon Hotto was a constant threat down the left flank, linking well with Tshegofatso Mabasa and Relebohile Mofokeng. Despite enjoying control for much of the first half, Pirates failed to convert their dominance into goals.
Galaxy, meanwhile, were limited in attack, struggling to break through the Pirates’ backline marshalled by Nkosinathi Sibisi and Melusi Buthelezi, who replaced Sipho Chaine at half-time. Their best chances in the opening stanza came through long-range efforts from Neo Mgaga and Sipho Mahlambi, neither of which troubled the scoreboard.
Second-Half Shift
The breakthrough finally came in the 63rd minute when Bandile Shandu finished off a well-worked move, tapping in from close range to put the hosts 1-0 up. The goal looked to have settled the contest as Pirates continued to press, with Maswanganyi and Mabasa probing the Galaxy defence.
But TS Galaxy, without a league win since March, refused to lie down. Coach Sead Ramović’s substitutions made the difference. Keagan Dolly brought energy into midfield, while Damir Šovšić added control in possession.
Last-Gasp Equaliser
Just as it seemed Pirates would hold on for all three points, TS Galaxy struck deep into stoppage time. A moment of brilliance from Victor Letsoalo saw him thread a pass into the path of Mvelase, who coolly slotted home to level matters in the dying seconds.
It was a gut-wrenching blow for Pirates, who had looked set to reduce the gap between themselves and log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. The Buccaneers remain on 56 points from 25 matches, 14 adrift of the champions, who have three games in hand.
Orlando Pirates vs TS Galaxy Post-Match Talking Points
- The draw continues Pirates’ unbeaten run, but it will feel like a loss given their control of the game.
- Galaxy, now on 35 points from 28 games, managed to separate themselves from AmaZulu in the standings.
- Mvelase’s impact off the bench highlights the depth Galaxy possesses, even in challenging form.
Also read: Ex-Orlando Pirates Boss Jose Riveiro Pledges Loyalty to Club
This match marks a transitional moment for Orlando Pirates in the post-Riveiro era. While the team showed promise, especially in the first half, the lack of ruthlessness in front of goal and late defensive lapses remain areas of concern. For TS Galaxy, this result could be the spark they need to end the season strongly. The drama, intensity, and late heroics proved once again why the PSL never disappoints.
