Jonathan Paoli and Thebe Mabanga
Orlando Pirates enter Saturday’s Carling Knockout Cup final against Marumo Gallants at the Peter Mokaba Stadium as overwhelming favourites, backed by irresistible form, a dominant defensive record, and a clear statistical edge over their opponents.
With 15 wins in their last 17 matches and 13 clean sheets in that period, the Sea Robbers appear primed to lift their second domestic trophy of the season.
The form guide, head-to-head history, and squad depth all point in one direction: Pirates are tipped to win inside 90 minutes, keep another clean sheet, and comfortably clear a −1 handicap against a Gallants side that has struggled for consistency despite their spirited Cup run.
Pirates currently lead the Betway Premiership with nine wins from 12 matches. Marumo Gallants lie 12th with three wins from 14 matches.
Under coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, the team is praised by many as operating at a level currently unmatched in South African football, even by Mamelodi Sundowns, the dominant side of the past decade.
Pirates are the undisputed Cup Kings of local football. Since 2022, they have contested the most finals in domestic cup competitions. They have won the MTN 8 on the last four occasions and reached the last three Nedbank Cup finals, winning two and losing last season’s to archrivals Kaizer Chiefs.
Marumo Gallants won the 2021 edition of the Nedbank Cup as TTM.
Another sign of dominance is that Pirates have supplied eight of the 25 palyers in the Bafana Bafana squad to compete at the African Cup of Nations in Morrocco from later this month, while Marumo have none.
Pirates come into the final on the back of four straight victories in all competitions, including a 1-0 semifinal triumph over Richards Bay.
Their last two league outings showcased their balance of attacking aggression and defensive discipline: a 2-0 win over Chippa United in which they registered 24 shots, followed by a controlled 2-0 victory away at Durban City, conceding just one attempt on target.
Much of this stability has come from goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, who has kept eight clean sheets in 12 recent matches.
Ahead of the final, he identified former teammate Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo as Gallants’ biggest threat, noting his excellent Cup form.
Meanwhile, French coach Alexandre Lafitte has transformed Gallants into one of the most entertaining teams in the league this season, but results have not followed performances.
Their route to the final showcased resilience rather than dominance: penalty shootout victories over Mamelodi Sundowns and Golden Arrows sandwiched a 4-0 demolition of Stellenbosch.
Their last two league matches ended in 1-1 draws, both times recovering from early deficits.
Gallants’ unpredictable form makes them capable of producing a surprise, but the numbers highlight the challenge they face.
They have conceded nine goals in their last five matches, while Pirates have conceded just one over the same stretch.
Across 11 previous meetings, Pirates lead the record with six wins to Gallants’ three, with two draws.
While Gallants’ 2-1 victory earlier this season gives them a psychological foothold, Pirates’ overall control of the fixture and improvement since makes that August upset look like an exception rather than a trend.
The final will also serve as a farewell for Mbekezeli Mbokazi, the 20-year-old defender who has completed a move to American outfit Chicago Fire.
After successful negotiations, both clubs agreed that he will remain with Pirates until the end of 2025, allowing him to feature in Saturday’s final.
His departure has added an emotional layer to the Bucs’ preparations.
Mbokazi is expected to start the side in his final match before heading to the United States.
Pirates have been clear that his transfer will not affect his availability, with the club emphasising his meteoric rise and leadership role.
Predicted Lineups
Orlando Pirates (4-5-1):
Chaine; Lebitso, Seema, Mbokazi, Hotto; Mbatha, Nemtajela; Moremi, Mofokeng, Appollis; Mbuthuma.
Oswin Appollis is expected to return to the starting XI, while Olisa Ndah remains available but likely to start on the bench.
Marumo Gallants (4-2-3-1):
Arubi; Ncube, Sikhosane, Agnikoi, Chabatsane; Bance, Nhlapo; Msenadmi, Mabuza, Otladisa; Ndlondlo.
Gallants face a late decision on Ndlondlo, who picked up a knock last weekend but is expected to feature.
Given Pirates’ formidable form, defensive solidity, and superior squad depth, they are tipped to win the final in regulation time, likely with another clean sheet.
Gallants may compete with heart and energy, but the momentum rests firmly with the Soweto giants.
Kick-off is at six in the afternoon at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane, Limpopo.
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