Bafana stars shine as Orlando Pirates beat Durban City 2-0 in Betway Premiership

Orlando Pirates claimed a 2-0 victory over Durban City at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Thursday, with several of Pitso Mosimane’s Bafana Bafana call-ups featuring in the encounter.

With Mosimane’s final squad confirmed ahead of Bafana’s upcoming fixtures, the match provided another opportunity to assess the players selected for national team duty.

Chaine shows his class

Sipho Chaine produced a good performance in goal despite Pirates delivering an otherwise average showing.

The goalkeeper was called upon when Durban City threatened on the counter-attack and pulled off several important saves when required, especially in the first half which should have ended at least 2-0 in favour of the visitors.

Chaine’s composure during City’s dangerous moments helped Pirates protect their advantage and secure the clean sheet.

Sibisi displays leadership

Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi produced a professional showing at the back.

The skipper marshalled the defence effectively alongside his defensive partner and helped Pirates deal with the threat posed by City.

His experience and leadership were evident as Pirates controlled the match and kept a clean sheet.

Seema shows composure

It was a memorable evening for 23-year-old Lebone Seema, who marked his first Bafana Bafana call-up with a goal.

Seema broke the deadlock for Pirates in the 57th minute after already producing a defensively resolute performance.

The youngster looked composed throughout the contest and will take plenty of confidence from scoring on an occasion when he was under the spotlight.

Sebelebele Player of the Match

Kamogelo Sebelebele was not troubled much defensively, allowing the fullback had to maraud forward and contribute more prominently in attack.

He looked dangerous when pushing into advanced positions and provided Pirates with an attacking outlet on the flank.

Sebelebele could not add a goal or assist to his performance, but his attacking intent was noticeable.

Mbuthuma struggle for consistency

Yanela Mbuthuma was unable to influence the game as much as he would have liked.

The forward produced a few flashes but struggled to consistently impose himself on the contest or make a decisive contribution.

Mbuthuma will be looking for a stronger showing when he gets another opportunity to impress Mosimane.

Appollis struggle with rhythm

Oswin Appollis was introduced in the 70th minute but had little impact during the time he spent on the pitch.

The attacker struggled to get into the rhythm of the match and was unable to produce a meaningful attacking contribution after coming on.

With competition for places in Mosimane’s Bafana squad, Appollis will be hoping for more influential minutes in the upcoming international matches.

Poggenpoel’s committed performance

Brooklyn Poggenpoel was the only Bafana representative in the Durban City line-up and produced a committed performance despite ending up on the losing side.

The midfielder was stern and resolute in the middle of the pitch, competing strongly and helping City remain competitive.

Although the result went against City, Poggenpoel can take encouragement from a solid individual display as he looks to establish himself in Mosimane’s plans.