Written by: Kamogelo Mogale
Orlando Pirates suffered their hurdle in the 2025/26 betWay premiership season, suffering a 1-0 defeat against Sekhukhune United at the Orlando Pirates on Saturday evening. Siphesihle Mkhize sealed the deal for Babina Noko, scoring the only goal of the match on the 48th minute from a rebound to beat an unaware reigning goalkeeper of the season, Sipho Chaine.
Pirates changes huffed and puffed for the equaliser, but it wasn’t to be as their best moment was when Mbokazi’s header hit the upright from Deon Hotto’s set-piece.
The Buccaneers started the encounter brewing with confidence following their impressive victory over Polokwane City in the MTN8 quarter-final last week but came up against an organised and committed Sekhukhune who also booked a spot in the competition’s semi-final.
Both teams at the busiest in the current transfer window period and it was evident when Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou gave four new signings (Oswin Appollis, Sipho Mbule, Tshepo Mashiloane and Sihle Nduli) their first official league start for the club.
The defeat marked a disappointing start to Abdeslam Ouaddou’s tenure in the league at eSgodini, further compounded by Mamelodi Sundowns dropping two points with a draw against Chippa United at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in the earlier kickoff.
Pirates will now shift their focus to the appointment on Tuesday when they will face Ouaddou’s former side Marumo Gallants, who started their campaign with a 2-1 win at Richards Bay.
