Fourteen years of waiting will extend by at least one more week.
Pirates dominated every aspect of Saturday’s clash against Durban City but could not find the goal that would have virtually secured the Betway Premiership title.
A resolute defensive display from the visitors earned them a point that keeps them in the top eight – and delays the Buccaneers’ title party.
The stats painted a remarkable picture. Pirates had 77% possession, 29 shots, 19 corners and 43 touches in Durban’s box. Their expected goals tally of 1.42 told the story of a team that created more than enough to win.
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Durban’s goalkeeper Frederick Asare was the difference, making seven saves to deny Appollis, Makgopa, Mofokeng, Moremi and Mbatha in a heroic individual performance.
Durban City do Masandawana a huge favour 👀#BetwayPrem | #SSDiski pic.twitter.com/05d9st4kot
— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) May 16, 2026
Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou surprised many with his selection, handing Simphiwe Selepe a first start of the season while Yanela Mbuthuma was preferred to Evidence Makgopa up front. Mbuthuma’s afternoon ended prematurely after 38 minutes through injury, with Makgopa introduced to the delight of the home crowd.
The second half brought more of the same. Mbatha and Mofokeng both went close from distance. Moremi and Mariko were introduced in search of a breakthrough. Durban simply refused to yield.
Captain Siphamandla Ncanana led by example at the back, throwing himself into every challenge and organising his defence superbly throughout.
Durban’s 64 clearances summed up their afternoon. They came to Orlando Amstel Arena with one job – survive – and they did it brilliantly.
For Pirates, there is no margin for error now. A win against Orbit College in Mbombela on the final day of the season is the only result that will do. Mamelodi Sundowns, whose league campaign is complete, will be watching closely from their CAF Champions League final preparations.
Photo: Daniel Hlongwane/Gallo Images
