Live Score and Updates: Golden Arrows vs Orlando Pirates

Golden Arrows vs Orlando Pirates – The Betway Premiership returned to Durban on Tuesday night as Lamontville Golden Arrows host a buoyant Orlando Pirates at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Orlando Pirates secured a 2-1 away win over Golden Arrows in a tightly contested clash. After a goalless first half, Maswanganyi opened the scoring early in the second period before Mthanti equalised for Arrows. Substitute Mabasa sealed the victory with a well-taken goal in the 72nd minute. Despite late pressure from Arrows, Pirates held on for all three points in a solid team performance.

Arrows vs Pirates Live Score and Updates

Kick-off is at 19:30, and the match will be broadcast live on SuperSport PSL and SABC Sport. Live updates will also be available here:

Starting Line-Up:

Arrows Starting XI: Maova ,Jiyane, Kobedi, Matlaba , Zwane, Dlamini, S.Cele, Ndwandwe , Sibiya, Mthanti, Msomi

Subs: Watenga, Masuku, Lukhele, Nxadi, Maxwele, Van Rooi, Sithole, Malinga, Phillips

Pirates Starting XI: Buthelezi, Shandu, Xoki, Mbokazi, Van Rooyen, Makhaula, Dlamini, Maswanganyi, Madiba, Kimvuidi, Radiopane

Subs: Dladla, Selepe, Ndlozi, Nkota, Mako, Maela, Mabasa, Makgopa, Hotto

FIRST HALF: Arrows 0 – 0 Pirates

The first half in Durban saw a fast-paced and open contest, with Golden Arrows taking early control and putting Orlando Pirates under real pressure. From the opening whistle, Arrows attacked with intent, forcing Buthelezi into early saves and creating nervy moments in the Pirates box.

Zwane went close with a header that flew just wide, while Arrows regularly threatened from the flanks and set-pieces. Pirates struggled to settle in the opening stages but began to find their rhythm midway through the half, with Maswanganyi firing wide and Dlamini seeing his effort blocked after being flagged offside.

Arrows continued to probe, but Pirates grew into the game, earning corners and creating half-chances — including two shots that struck the side-netting. Goalkeepers on both ends were kept busy, with Maova and Buthelezi making key interventions.

The half ended with a golden opportunity for Arrows as Msomi played a brilliant through ball to Mthanti, who rushed his shot and sent it wide, summing up a first half full of energy, missed chances, and end-to-end football.

SECOND HALF: ARROWS 1 – 2 PIRATES

The second half kicked off with Selepe replacing Makhaula for Pirates. Just five minutes in, Maswanganyi opened the scoring with a composed finish after rounding the keeper to put Pirates 1-0 up. Arrows responded quickly, and in the 59th minute, Mthanti equalised with a sharp finish at the near post, making it 1-1.

Both sides made changes—Pirates brought on Mabasa and Mako, while Arrows introduced Phillips and Maxwele. Shandu came close with a first-time flick that flew over the bar, but the score remained level. However, Mabasa restored Pirates’ lead with a well-taken goal in the 72nd minute, putting them 2-1 ahead.

In the closing stages, Arrows made more changes, bringing on Van Rooi and Lukhele. Pirates continued to press, with Mbokazi forcing a strong save from Maova and Mabasa going close with a flicked effort over the bar. Arrows pushed forward desperately, winning a late free-kick near the Pirates box, but couldn’t make it count.

In stoppage time, Buthelezi remained solid in goal, while Lukhele received a yellow card for a foul on Nkota.

The match ended 2-1 in favour of Orlando Pirates, who held firm despite late Arrows pressure to secure a hard-fought win.

Golden Arrows vs Orlando Pirates PREVIEW:

Form and Momentum

• Orlando Pirates
  • Coming off a 3-2 comeback win over Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby.
  • Unbeaten in their last four away league matches (3 wins, 1 draw).
  • Have won 7 of their 11 away fixtures this season.
  • Sitting second on the table, 12 points behind Sundowns with two games in hand.
  • A win would take them past the 50-point mark and keep their title hopes alive.
• Golden Arrows
  • Winless in their last four matches.
  • Recently lost back-to-back home games to AmaZulu and Stellenbosch.
  • Currently 14th on the log and at risk of being dragged into a relegation battle.
  • Struggling at home with just 14 points from 13 matches and a goal drought since March.
  • Could climb to 11th place with a victory, which would boost their survival hopes.

Team News

Pirates will be without two key players. Defender Nkosinathi Sibisi continues his suspension, while midfielder Thalente Mbatha serves a one-match ban after a booking in the Derby. Despite the absentees, the squad remains strong, with plenty of depth in both defence and midfield.

For Arrows, influential attacking midfielder Blessing Mchunu is suspended after picking up a fourth yellow card in their loss to Stellenbosch. His absence may impact their creativity in the final third, where they have struggled recently.

Players to Watch

Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Orlando Pirates): The teenage defender returns to his home province in fine form. His passing range and composure at the back make him a crucial outlet for launching attacks.

Velemseni Ndwandwe (Golden Arrows): A consistent performer for the hosts, Ndwandwe’s tireless work in midfield will be central to any hopes of disrupting the Pirates rhythm. His ability to link play and win second balls will be vital.

Head-to-Head History

Pirates have dominated this fixture in recent years. In their last meeting, they hammered Arrows 7-1, with Tshegofatso Mabasa netting a hat-trick. The Buccaneers have now won four straight against Arrows and scored 14 of the last 17 goals between the sides. Arrows haven’t beaten Pirates in four years – a streak they’ll be desperate to break.

What to Expect

Despite their league position, Arrows shouldn’t be underestimated, especially under the guidance of new coach Manqoba Mngqithi. Pirates’ assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has warned against complacency, citing the unpredictability Arrows bring, especially with new signings from Royal AM potentially making an impact.

Expect a game of contrasting styles: Pirates will likely dominate possession and look to exploit Arrows’ defensive lapses, while the hosts will aim to be compact and strike on the counter.

Also read: Orlando Pirates Legend Holds Riveiro Responsible for CAF Champions League Exit

With Pirates eyeing the title chase and Arrows fighting for survival, this clash has all the ingredients of a thriller. The visitors are favourites based on form and history, but Arrows will be banking on home turf and the element of surprise to spark a much-needed revival.