Orlando Pirates secured their third consecutive South African 8 Cup title with a 3-1 victory over Stellenbosch in Durban on Saturday, aided by a disputed added-time goal from Tshegofatso Mabasa.
With the match locked at 1-1 in stoppage time, Stellenbosch defender Ismael Toure was penalised for a foul, a decision that sparked protests from several Stellenbosch players. During the confusion, the ball was rolled forward about six metres, and Orlando Pirates took a quick free-kick, which caught the Stellenbosch defence off guard. Mabasa capitalised on the moment, slotting the ball into the net from close range to give Pirates the lead.
The law governing free kicks states that all free kicks are taken from the place where the offence occurred, which prompted further controversy. Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker expressed frustration after the game, labelling Pirates’ second goal an “incident that spoils the game.” Barker questioned both the foul decision and the location of the free-kick, arguing, “First, it was not a free-kick. Second, the referee was speaking to the players. Third, it was taken from the wrong place.”
Relebohile Mofokeng added a third goal for Pirates six minutes into stoppage time, sealing the victory and ensuring the Buccaneers claimed the 10 million rand (€520,000) prize.
Stellenbosch had taken an early lead in the 12th minute through Lehlohonolo Mojela, only for Pirates’ Monnapule Saleng to equalise just before half-time.
The South African 8 Cup is a knockout competition for the top eight clubs from the previous league season. With this triumph behind them, both Pirates (Champions League) and Stellenbosch (Confederation Cup) will now focus on the CAF group stage draws, set to take place in Cairo on Monday.