Orlando Pirates moved to the top of the Betway Premiership standings after defeating Sekhukhune United 2 0 at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday, 25 August 2026. The victory lifted the Buccaneers to 10 points after four league matches, placing them three points ahead of Kaizer Chiefs before their rivals’ fixture against Richards Bay on Wednesday.
Pirates were the better side throughout the contest, with Boitumelo Radiopane opening the scoring before Oswin Appollis added a second after the break. Sekhukhune United, meanwhile, slipped to sixth place after suffering their second defeat of the season.
The result gives Pirates confidence ahead of Saturday’s MTN8 semifinal second leg, where they will once again host Sekhukhune United.
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Pirates Make Bright Start at Orlando Stadium
Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou made three changes to the starting line up following his side’s MTN8 semifinal first leg victory over Sekhukhune in Polokwane.
Sbangani Zulu replaced club captain Nkosinathi Sibisi in central defence, while Daniel Msendami and Boitumelo Radiopane came into the starting eleven.
The changes brought early energy to the home side.
Pirates almost opened the scoring inside the opening three minutes when Zulu met a corner from Simphiwe Masilela, forcing Sekhukhune goalkeeper Renaldo Buthelezi into an excellent close range save.
The Buccaneers continued to dominate possession and created several opportunities during the opening half hour.
Kamogelo Sebelebele tested Buthelezi from distance in the 29th minute, but the goalkeeper was equal to the effort.
Radiopane Gives Pirates a First Half Lead
Pirates’ sustained pressure was rewarded in the 36th minute.
Radiopane showed composure inside the penalty area by turning his defender before beating Buthelezi with a well placed finish to hand the hosts a deserved advantage.
Sekhukhune had an opportunity to level matters shortly before half time.
Lehlohonolo Mojela found space inside the Pirates penalty area but headed wide from close range, allowing the Buccaneers to take a 1 0 lead into the interval.
Appollis Seals Victory After the Break
Pirates continued to control proceedings in the second half and doubled their advantage in the 62nd minute.
A mistake by Sekhukhune defender Tsepo Matsimbi allowed Pirates to win possession near the halfway line.
Radiopane collected the loose ball before setting up Oswin Appollis, who calmly finished past Buthelezi to make it 2 0.
The second goal effectively secured all three points for the home side, who comfortably managed the remainder of the match.
Sekhukhune Coach Sent Off Before MTN8 Rematch
The closing stages brought further frustration for the visitors.
Sekhukhune coach Cedric Kaze was shown a red card and will miss Saturday’s MTN8 semifinal second leg against Pirates.
The two teams meet again at Orlando Stadium in a crucial cup fixture, with Pirates looking to protect their first leg advantage and book a place in the MTN8 final.
Pirates Strengthen Their Title Credentials
The victory continues Pirates’ impressive start to the Betway Premiership season.
With 10 points from four matches, the Buccaneers sit at the top of the standings while maintaining momentum in both league and cup competitions.
Sekhukhune remain in the top half of the table despite the defeat, having collected six points from their opening four league fixtures under Kaze.
The match also highlighted Pirates’ attacking depth, with Radiopane scoring once and providing an assist for Appollis.
Match Summary
Result
- Orlando Pirates 2
- Sekhukhune United 0
Goalscorers
- Boitumelo Radiopane, 36th minute
- Oswin Appollis, 62nd minute
Venue
- Orlando Stadium, Johannesburg
Competition
- Betway Premiership
What This Means for Gauteng Residents
The result strengthens Gauteng’s presence at the top of the Betway Premiership, with Orlando Pirates leading the standings heading into the next round of fixtures.
Supporters will not have to wait long for another meeting between the two clubs, as Pirates and Sekhukhune United return to Orlando Stadium on Saturday for the decisive second leg of their MTN8 semifinal.
The fixture is expected to attract another large crowd as Pirates attempt to continue their strong start to the season in both domestic competitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored for Orlando Pirates against Sekhukhune United?
Boitumelo Radiopane opened the scoring before Oswin Appollis added the second goal.
Where was the match played?
The Betway Premiership fixture was played at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg.
What does the result mean for the league table?
Pirates moved to the top of the Betway Premiership standings on 10 points, three ahead of Kaizer Chiefs before their next league match.
Who was sent off during the match?
Sekhukhune United coach Cedric Kaze received a red card late in the game and will miss Saturday’s MTN8 semifinal second leg.
When do the teams meet again?
Orlando Pirates and Sekhukhune United face each other again on Saturday in the second leg of their MTN8 semifinal.
Pirates Carry Momentum Into a Crucial Cup Clash
Orlando Pirates delivered a disciplined performance to secure a deserved 2 0 victory over Sekhukhune United and move to the summit of the Betway Premiership. With Radiopane and Appollis leading the attack and confidence growing under Abdeslam Ouaddou, the Buccaneers now turn their attention to Saturday’s MTN8 semifinal second leg, where they will look to build on both their league form and their first leg advantage.
