Orlando Pirates have done it again! The “Sea Robbers” were crowned the 2025 Carling Knockout champions last night, 6th December 2025, after a tough 1-0 victory over Marumo Gallants at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.
It was a tense evening where fans had to wait until extra time to see the winning goal, but the celebrations in the end were well worth it.
A Tough Battle
The final was not an easy game. For 90 minutes, both teams fought hard but could not find the back of the net. Orlando Pirates controlled much of the game and created chances, but Marumo Gallants defended bravely. Gallants’ goalkeeper, Washington Arubi, made some important saves to keep his team in the match.
When the referee blew the whistle at the end of normal time, the score was still 0-0. The match had to go into extra time to find a winner.
The Winning Moment
The hero of the night was the young star, Relebohile Mofokeng. In the 105th minute, just before the halftime break of extra time, Mofokeng finally broke the deadlock.
He struck the ball into the net to give Pirates the 1-0 lead. The stadium erupted with joy as the “Buccaneers” fans celebrated the crucial goal.
Double Champions
Marumo Gallants tried to fight back, but Pirates’ defense stood strong until the final whistle. This victory is extra special for Orlando Pirates because it is their second trophy of the season. They have already won the MTN8 cup, making them “double champions” this year.
It was a night of drama, nerves, and finally, glory for the Black and White. Orlando Pirates are the kings of the Carling Knockout!
Orlando Pirates (0) 1 (Mbuthuma 105′)
Marumo Gallants (0) 0
Orlando Pirates: S. Chaine, T. Lebitso, L. Seema, M. Mbokazi, N. Ndaba (D. Hotto 59′), T. Mbatha (S. Mbule 83′), M. Makhaula (T. Moremi 46′), M. Nemtajela, O. Appollis (C. Dansin 100′), E. Makgopa (Y. Mbuthuma 64′), R. Mofokeng (N. Sibisi 105′).
Marumo Gallants: W. Arubi, K. Ncube, E. Agnikoi, M. Sikhosana, M. Chabatsane, K. Sithole (M. Mpambaniso 82′), S. Nhlapo, I. Bance (K. Mhlongo 112′), B. Mabuza (D. Msendami 46′), K. Otladisa (T. Motloung 105′), N. Ndlondlo (J. Clifford 105′).