Orlando Pirates secure a crushing victory over Chippa United | OneFootball

Orlando Pirates secure a crushing victory over Chippa United

Orlando Pirates delivered a commanding performance on Sunday afternoon, securing a 3-0 victory against Chippa United in the Betway Premiership clash held at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha.

Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou introduced three strategic changes to the starting lineup, with Thabiso Lebitso, Thalente Mbatha, and Evidence Makgopa stepping in for Bandile Shandu, Tshegofatso Mabasa, and Abdoulaye Mariko.

On the opposing side, Chippa United also reshuffled their squad, fielding Thulani Mini, Xolani Sithole, Giovanni Philander, and Sammy Seabi in place of Somila Ntsundwana, Boy Madingwane, Bandile Dlamini, and Goodman Mosele. The match also marked the debut of new Chippa head coach Luc Eymael, who took over the reins following the recent dismissal of Sinethemba Badela.

The game began at a high tempo, with both sides pushing aggressively in an end-to-end contest. Despite the energetic start, clear-cut chances were scarce in the opening exchanges.

A defensive mistake by the hosts in the 10th minute proved costly, as Patrick Maswanganyi capitalized on the error to put Orlando Pirates ahead. Maswanganyi nearly doubled his tally soon after with a fierce drive into the box, but Chippa goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali produced an important save to keep the deficit at one goal.

The Buccaneers maintained control throughout the first half, creating several opportunities while limiting Chippa’s attacking threats. The half-time whistle blew with Orlando Pirates holding a 1-0 advantage.

Looking to mount a comeback, Chippa’s coach Luc Eymael made two substitutions at the break, bringing on Boy Madingwane and Thamsanqa Magwaza for Xolani Sithole and Thulani Mini.