A referee’s added time goal scored by Relebohile Mofokeng was crucial in ensuring that Orlando Pirates successfully defended the Nedbank Cup as they beat Mamelodi Sundowns 2-1 at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit on Saturday.
The first half ended goalless after Sipho Chaine became a hero when he saved Lucas Ribeiro Costa’s penalty in the 10th minute. Match referee Sikhumbuzo Gasa awarded the Brazilians the penalty after Deon Hotto had fouled Khuliso Mudau inside the box.
The Tshwane giants took the lead through their captain Themba Zwane’s goal following a cross from Ribeiro in the 54th minute.
The Buccaneers equalised from the penalty spot after Patrick Maswanganyi beat Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams in the 71st minute. Pirates got the penalty after Aubrey Modiba’s foul on Maswanganyi.
Just as Gasa was preparing to blow the final whistle taking the match to extra time, Mofokeng turned Bongani Zungu before putting the ball past Williams.
