BY: TANA MALINGA
Orlando Pirates delivered a ruthless performance to book their place in the Nedbank Cup Last 16, cruising to a 4-1 win over Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila (TTM) .
Pirates wasted no time stamping their authority. Their high tempo and sharp passing immediately pinned TTM back, and the pressure soon paid off with an early breakthrough that settled nerves.
Once ahead, the Buccaneers played with confidence, moving the ball quickly and exploiting space down the flanks.
TTM showed fight and managed to pull one goal back, briefly raising hopes of a cup upset. That moment was short-lived. Pirates responded like a seasoned cup side, calm, clinical and focused. A second goal restored control, and from there the match belonged to the Soweto giants.
The key moment came midway through the second half when Pirates scored again to kill the contest. With TTM chasing the game, gaps opened up, and Pirates punished them with a fourth goal to seal a dominant win.
Standout highlights included Pirates’ pressing game, quick transitions, and composed finishing in front of goal. Defensively, they stayed organised and limited TTM’s chances after the brief scare.
It was a professional, no-nonsense performance from Orlando Pirates strong, sharp and ruthless, as they marched confidently into the next round of the Nedbank Cup.
