Orlando Pirates are the 2024 MTN8 champions for the third year running after beating Stellenbosch FC by 3-1 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday night. 

The defending champions were a goal down in the 12th minute after Bradley Mojela scored stunningly for the men from the Winelands, but the Buccaneers equalised through Monnapule Saleng just before halftime to keep their title defence alive.

The second half was a close contest between both sides, but Pirates scored late through their replacement striker Tshegofatso Mabasa after a contentious free kick which left opinions divided.

Thabiso Sesane was the Man of the Match. Photo: Facebook

Relebohile Mofokeng sealed the comeback win five minutes later and the Buccaneers took their 13th title in the competition. Pirates coach Jose Riveiro gave his players all the credit for the win.

“It’s the team who wins it for the third time in a row, it’s not the coach. We fought, we prayed, we worked, we planned, we travelled, we tried to do our best in every game, that’s the minimum we can do when we’re representing a club like this one,” he said.

Pirates will resume their PSL action when they meet AmaZulu at the Orlando Stadium on 25 October, while Stellenbosch FC visit Richards Bay at the King Zwelithini Stadium on the same day.

OFM Sport/Ilse Smalberger dg