WeeklySA_AdminSPECTACLE: thrilling cup final awaits as Orlando Pirates look to outwit a fearless Marumo Gallants side that has stunned giants on their road to the final…
By Masoja Cele
Football fanatics are assured of a spectacular cup exhibition when Orlando Pirates take on Marumo Gallants in the Carling Black Label Cup Final at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane next Saturday.
It’s a foregone conclusion that one of the two sides will be crowned champion, and fate has an interesting twist — Pirates’ last league defeat came against none other than Marumo Gallants in early August.
Since then, the Buccaneers have been in irresistible form. Their 2025/26 campaign has been impressive, with their only major setback being the loss to Saint Eloi Lupopo in the CAF Champions League. The Soweto giants, four-time successive MTN8 champions, have become one of the most consistent and structured teams in the country.
Their fluid ball rotation and tactical organisation continue to stand out. With bookmakers, Pirates are firm favourites to lift the trophy, boasting a powerful blend of local and international quality.
Sensation Relebohile Mofokeng has returned from a long injury layoff, immediately reminding fans of his brilliance by inspiring a 2–0 league win over Chippa United. The rejuvenated Sipho Mbule has cemented himself as a key figure for both Pirates and Bafana Bafana. Known for his vision and shooting range, Mbule remains a nightmare for opponents.
Rock-solid defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, arguably the find of the season, has transformed into a fan favourite almost overnight. A no-nonsense defender, his presence evokes memories of former Bucs hard man Johannes “Yster” Khomane. In midfield, Thalente Mbatha combines superbly with Mbule and carries a threat going forward with his powerful runs and eye for goal. Together, these players form a formidable unit capable of unsettling Bahlabane Ba Ntwa.
But Gallants are not in the final by luck. Their journey from the last 16 has been defined by resilience and conviction. They first eliminated Mamelodi Sundowns 7–6 on penalties, then swept aside Stellenbosch FC 4–0 in the quarterfinals. In the semi-finals, they battled Golden Arrows to a 2–2 draw before winning 4–2 on penalties.
Midfielder Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo was outstanding in the semi-final, dictating the tempo with authority and creating numerous chances. Winger Daniel Msendami also found the net, continuing his influential run of form.
Other key players include attacking midfielder Monde Mpambaniso, who excels in pushing forward to add numbers to the attack, and midfield anchor Christopher Sekele, whose disciplined play forms the critical link between defence and midfield.
This final promises to be a battle of tactical intelligence. Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who originally arrived in South Africa through Gallants in the 2024/25 season before joining Pirates, has shown composure and maturity in his approach. Meanwhile, French mentor Alexandre Lafitte has turned Marumo Gallants into a cohesive and dangerous unit.
With contrasting styles, strong characters, and high stakes, the Carling Black Label Cup Final is set to deliver a thrilling spectacle in Polokwane.
Kick-off is at 18:00.
