Orlando Pirates secured their place in the Nedbank Cup final with a dominant display against Chippa United, defeating the Eastern Cape outfit 3-1 at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium today. Kabelo Dlamini stole the show with a first-half brace, while Tapelo Xoki added a late insurance goal.
Nedbank Cup: Orlando Pirates vs Chippa United Match Recap
The encounter started with a bang. The lively Dlamini put the Buccaneers ahead just five minutes in, latching onto a perfectly weighted pass and slotting the ball coolly past Chippa goalkeeper Stanley Nwabili. The goal sent a wave of yellow through the stadium, and Pirates continued to pile on the pressure.
Chippa, however, refused to roll over. Their attacking intent was clear, but they struggled to break down a resolute Pirates defense marshaled by the ever-impressive Thabiso Sesane. The first half took a dramatic turn just before the break when Dlamini doubled the Pirates lead. This time, he found the back of the net with a powerful strike, leaving Nwabili with no chance.
The second half saw a more cautious approach from both sides. Chippa emerged with renewed determination, and their efforts paid off in the 63rd minute. Elmo Kambindu capitalized on a defensive lapse by the Buccaneers, firing a well-placed shot past Sipho Chaine to bring the Chilli Boys back into the game.
The goal ignited a tense period as Chippa pushed for an equalizer. However, their hopes were dashed when Bienvenu Eva Nga received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge in the 88th minute, reducing them to ten men.
Pirates seized the numerical advantage, and Tapelo Xoki put the game beyond doubt with a clinical finish in the 81st minute. The final whistle blew shortly after, sending the traveling Pirates faithful into raptures.
Dlamini Deservedly Takes Center Stage
Kabelo Dlamini was undoubtedly the man of the match. His two goals were instrumental in propelling Pirates to victory. The young forward showcased his pace, composure, and aerial prowess throughout the encounter, causing constant problems for the Chippa defense.
Chippa Show Fight But Ultimately Fall Short
Despite the scoreline, Chippa United deserves credit for their spirited display. They showcased impressive attacking intent, especially in the second half, and Kambindu’s goal kept them in the game for a significant period. However, their indiscipline, particularly Eva Nga’s red card, proved costly in the end.
Pirates Set Sights on Nedbank Cup Glory
The victory propels Orlando Pirates into the Nedbank Cup final, where they will be aiming to add another trophy to their illustrious cabinet. Coach Jose Riveiro will be pleased with his team’s performance, particularly their ability to see out the game after Chippa pulled a goal back.
This match served as another reminder of the Buccaneers’ attacking prowess. With Dlamini finding his scoring touch, Pirates will be a force to be reckoned with in the final. Chippa United, on the other hand, will be left to rue missed opportunities and a moment of indiscipline that ultimately cost them a place in the showpiece.
Also read: Nedbank Cup: Sundowns Avoid Pirates In Semi-Final Draw