Match Overview
Magesi FC V/s Orlando Pirates Result Shocks PSL Fans
In one of the most dramatic Upsets in recent “South African” football history, “Magesi FC” defeated the mighty “Orlando Pirates 3-2″ in the “Carling Knockout Cup Round of 16”, Held At “Orlando Stadium” On May 28, 2025. The Victory Not only marked a massive Milestone for the Limpopo-Based underdogs But also cast a glaring spotlight on the Pirates’ Defensive Frailties And Fan Discipline.
First Half: Magesi FC’s Blistering Counterattacks Stun Soweto Giants
Orlando Pirates, favorites coming into the match, dominated possession in the opening quarter. However, their inability to deal with Magesi FC’s swift transitions proved costly.
- 32nd Minute: Delano Abrahams stunned the home crowd by heading in a precise cross following a lightning-fast break.
- 39th Minute: A calamitous own goal by Thabiso Sesane handed Magesi their second, piling pressure on the Pirates.
- 45+4 Minute: Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Edmore Chirambadare converted the rebound after his penalty was initially saved, sending Magesi into halftime with a commanding 3-0 lead.
The Soweto crowd fell silent as Magesi showcased tactical discipline and sharp execution.
Second Half: Pirates’ Comeback Comes Too Late
Recognizing the urgency, Pirates coach Jose Riveiro introduced multiple attacking substitutions to shift the momentum.
- 86th Minute: Kabelo Dlamini finally broke the deadlock for Pirates, offering a glimmer of hope.
- 89th Minute: Evidence Makgopa added a second, bringing the match to 3-2 and igniting hopes of a miraculous comeback.
Despite mounting pressure, Magesi’s backline held firm, with goalkeeper Aime Kitenge making key saves in stoppage time. The upset was sealed, sending shockwaves across the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
Post-Match Reactions
Jose Riveiro Left Puzzled by Pirates’ Collapse
Head coach Jose Riveiro openly questioned his team’s concentration and structure:
“It was in the space of 12 minutes in the first half that the opponent was suddenly leading the game 3-0. The two first goals are not acceptable. It cannot happen—but it happened.”
Supporters and analysts alike pointed to structural weaknesses in the Pirates’ defense, calling for urgent review ahead of their upcoming PSL and CAF fixtures.
Disciplinary Fallout
PSL Sanctions Pirates for Fan Misconduct
In addition to the on-pitch drama, Orlando Pirates were hit with a R100,000 fine by the PSL Disciplinary Committee—R50,000 of which was suspended for 12 months. The penalty followed incidents of fans throwing objects at match officials post-game.
This marks yet another chapter in the ongoing challenge of improving fan behavior at South African football venues.
Why This Upset Matters
A Turning Point for Limpopo Football
“Magesi FC’s” victory isn’t just About one match—It Signifies the rising competitiveness of clubs outside Gauteng And “KwaZulu-Natal”, Especially from “Limpopo Province”. This historic win boosts their credibility as a top-flight contender And Sends a message that the So-called “smaller sides” can no longer be written off.
For “Orlando Pirates”, The loss acts As a wake-up call, Exposing depth Issues And Lapses in Tactical Cohesion.
“Frequently Asked Questions”
Who scored for Magesi FC in the Carling Knockout Cup upset?
- Delano Abrahams
- Own Goal by Thabiso Sesane
- Edmore Chirambadare
What was the final score between Magesi FC and Orlando Pirates?
- Magesi FC 3-2 Orlando Pirates
What disciplinary action did Orlando Pirates face?
- The club was fined R100,000, with R50,000 suspended, due to fan misconduct.