Makgopa goes from zero to hero as Pirates edge Chiefs in derby

Amid recent jeers from Orlando Pirates fans, Evidence Makgopa emerged as the hero by scoring the sole goal in their 1-0 triumph over Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday.

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Despite Chiefs’ five-game winning streak in the DStv Premiership Soweto derby, Pirates displayed superior prowess at FNB Stadium, securing three crucial points.

The victory propelled Pirates to seventh place in the standings with 15 points after 10 games, surpassing their Soweto rivals. 

Chiefs fell to eighth place with 14 points after suffering their sixth loss this season, a second under new interim coach Cavin Johnson.

The derby lived up to expectations, featuring the intensity and rivalry characteristic of such matchups, with both teams displaying an attacking mindset.

The theatrics unfolded just 50 seconds into the match when Evidence Makgopa received a booking for a reckless foul on Thatayaone Dithlokwe. 

The early drama continued for Pirates as Thabiso Monyane succumbed to injury in the fifth minute, prompting Bandile Shandu to step in.

The troubles persisted for Pirates, with Kermit Erasmus forced to exit in the 18th minute due to apparent cramps. 

Relebohile Mofokeng was the chosen replacement. Despite these early setbacks, Pirates seized the lead in the 20th minute when Makgopa capitalised on a Shandu cross, tapping in unmarked.

Chiefs struggled to craft chances

Following the goal, Chiefs began to show signs of initiative, creating a few promising moments. 

However, they struggled to craft clear-cut chances. Surprisingly, it was Pirates who came close to doubling their lead, particularly with Mofokeng’s powerful attempt testing Khune. 

The seasoned goalkeeper, however, rose to the challenge, deflecting the teenager’s shot over the crossbar.

Chiefs came closest to an equaliser in the 66th minute when Castillo headed unmarked inside the Pirates box from a Edmilson Dove cross. 

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But Melusi Buthelezi, who was playing his debut Soweto derby, managed to get his fingers on it, and tip it away. 

In another game played at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday afternoon, Polokwane City and Moroka Swallows played to a 0-0 draw.