TALKING POINTS | Orlando Pirates fly the flag for the PSL’s Big 3, as goalkeepers capture Carling KO drama
CARLING KNOCKOUT
Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s stunning long-range strike secured Orlando Pirates a 1-0 Carling Knockout win over Siwelele, while Fezile Gcaba’s hat-trick powered Durban City past Polokwane. Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs’ Fiacre Ntwari made headlines for refusing to be substituted, adding drama to a weekend full of standout performances. Photo: Itumeleng English Independent Media
Image: Itumeleng English Independent Media
Victorious Orlando Pirates were left to fly the 2025 Carling Knockout flag for the PSL’s ‘Big Three’ after Gauteng giants Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs bowed out in first-round clashes.
On Sunday, the spotlight shifted away from the pitch-side scoreboard and firmly onto Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari. The Rwanda international’s brilliance was evident, even in defeat; however, it was his audacious refusal to be substituted that shocked everyone, including the coaching staff.
It is not often a player contests tactical decisions so vehemently, but Ntwari’s defiance became one of the talking points of the weekend.
Mbokazi, the Happy People’s hero’
Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s moment of brilliance ignited the crowd with a sensational long-range strike that secured Orlando Pirates a 1-0 victory over Siwelele FC.
Fans were quick to praise his exceptional shooting ability, particularly his talent for scoring from improbable distances.
One fan exclaimed, “That was goal of the season material! Mbokazi is our star!”
With each performance, Mbokazi is solidifying his status among the “Happy People,” the nickname of the Orlando Pirates faithful.
Ntwari’s insubordination was drama deluxe
The Carling Knockout drama didn’t just focus on Chiefs’ loss to Stellenbosch; it was highlighted by a moment of fierce individualism from goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari.
Just ahead of the penalty shootout, Chiefs coaches Khaled Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze signalled their intention to bring on Bruce Bvuma. In a move that left fans and staff astonished, Ntwari defiantly waved the coaches away, insisting on staying on the field.
Chiefs coaches face grim reality
Sunday’s defeat casts a shadow over the futures of assistant coaches Cedric Kaze and Khaled Ben Youssef, especially with head coach Nasreddine Nabi’s anticipated departure.
The loss highlighted the challenges facing the team and could prompt a significant reshuffle as management looks to restore the club’s former glory. In professional football, results matter, and a string of defeats often brings scrutiny and uncertainty.
Chippa buckle under hard Knox
Richards Bay FC coach Ronnie Gabriel was thrilled with his side’s 4–1 victory over Chippa United, one of the standout scores of the first round.
New signing Knox Mutizwa scored twice, while Ntlonelo Bomelo and Lundi Mahala also found the net. Mutizwa, who joined on a free transfer from Golden Arrows, is earning praise for his performances and could soon force his way back into the Zimbabwe national team after earning 22 caps.
Dough’s going to Mamma Bear
Durban City’s hat-trick hero Fezile Gcaba won Player of the Match and a R100 000 prize after his team defeated Polokwane 4-1. Gcaba revealed he would give the money to his mother.
“I’m a mamma’s boy. The money will go to mum, and then we will see what we can do as a family,” he said.
Gcaba had a hand in four of the five goals in the match. After scoring an early goal, he gave away a penalty late in the game to make it 1-1, but later in extra time atoned by scoring twice more to seal the victory.