No joy for new coach Kanalelo as Pirates rout Gallants

Orlando Pirates secured a 2-0 victory over Marumo Gallants at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium on Sunday, maintaining their unbeaten start to the 2026/27 Betway Premiership. The win reduced the gap between Pirates and league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns to just one point, while Bahlabane Ba Ntwa remained at the bottom of the table. This game marked the first time new coach Fillemon Ronnie Kanalelo led Gallants, but it was not enough for the former Mamelodi Sundowns and Namibia goalkeeper to secure their first victory of the season.

Pirates' coach Abdeslam Ouaddou made one change from the previous match, bringing on Simphiwe Selepe for Mthetheleli Mthiyane. Kabelo Kgositsile and Tshepang Moremi threatened Pirates from the beginning, causing trouble for Gallants' defense. Pirates were awarded a free kick in a scoring position in the 11th minute after Simphiwe Masilela was brought down.

Thapelo Mokobodi took the opportunity, but his effort was saved. Two minutes later, Kelvin Etemesi had a chance, but he shot too late, allowing Emile Lako to block it. Kgositsile finally put Pirates ahead in the 32nd minute with a clever chip from Mokobodi. Gallants were close to equalizing in the 33rd minute when Kenyan striker Kelvin Etemesi had a one-on-one with Sipho Chaine, but his shot went wide.

Gallants' mistake almost led to a second goal for Pirates in the 65th minute, but Mokobodi's tame shot went wide again. Captain Nkosinathi Sibisi secured the win in the 67th minute with a header from a corner kick. Pirates now have six wins in their last seven matches.