Orlando Pirates returned to the top of the Betway Premiership table after claiming a composed 2–0 victory over AmaZulu FC at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Tuesday night.
Teenage forward Relebohile Mofokeng was the standout performer for the Buccaneers, scoring once and playing a decisive role in the second goal to cap another influential display.
Pirates made a bright start and took the lead in the 16th minute when Mofokeng rose highest to head home a pinpoint cross from Tshepang Moremi, giving the Soweto giants early control of the contest.
AmaZulu threatened an immediate response, with Keegan Allan going close, but Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine produced a smart save to preserve the advantage.
At the other end, Usuthu goalkeeper Darren Johnson was kept busy late in the first half, denying efforts from Deon Hotto, Thalente Mbatha and Oswin Appollis as Pirates pushed to extend their lead.
The second half saw a drop in fluency from the visitors, allowing AmaZulu to grow into the match. The Durban side came closest to equalising six minutes from time, but Chaine once again proved decisive, saving from Langelihle Mhlongo to maintain Pirates’ narrow lead.
Pirates finally sealed the result in stoppage time when Mofokeng’s effort struck the post before deflecting into the net off the unfortunate Johnson, securing all three points and confirming the Buccaneers’ return to the summit.
Pirates will now turn their attention to the Nedbank Cup, where they face Tshakhuma FC on Saturday, while AmaZulu prepare for their own knockout assignment against Polokwane City on 10 February.