Orlando Pirates secured the top spot in the Betway Premiership for the first time this season with a 2-0 victory over Durban City. The win at Moses Mabhida Stadium propelled them three points ahead of defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns. Goals from Evidence Makgopa and Patrick Maswanganyi sealed the result.
Orlando Pirates claimed the lead in the Betway Premiership standings following a convincing 2-0 defeat of Durban City on November 29, 2025, at Durban's Moses Mabhida Stadium. Entering the match level on points with Mamelodi Sundowns, Pirates overtook the champions thanks to the victory, now holding a three-point advantage with both teams having played the same number of fixtures. This marked the Buccaneers' first time at the summit this season, surpassing Sundowns who had previously held the position due to a better goal difference.
The scoring opened in the first half when Bafana Bafana striker Evidence Makgopa netted in the 23rd minute, latching onto a precise pass from teammate Relebohile Mofokeng to break the deadlock. The second goal arrived late in the second half, with Oswin Appollis delivering the assist for Patrick Maswanganyi to score 14 minutes from full time, in the 77th minute. The result was confirmed as 0-2 at the final whistle, as noted in the official match update from Orlando Pirates.
This performance underscores Pirates' strong form in the league, building on their competitive position prior to the game. Durban City, meanwhile, struggled to respond, unable to find a way past the Pirates defense throughout the encounter.