The Ultimate Sabotage? Pirates Loanee Mabasa Stuns Sundowns With Late Loftus Equalizer

Tshegofatso Mabasa may have handed his parent club, Orlando Pirates, a massive boost in the Betway Premiership title race after scoring a late equalizer to secure a 1-1 draw for Stellenbosch against Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday.

Mabasa, on loan from Pirates, converted in the 86th minute after Chumani Butsaka was brought down by Khulumane Ndamane. Although Ronwen Williams initially saved the penalty, Mabasa reacted quickest to finish it home on the rebound.

He thought he had grabbed a late winner moments later, but his effort was ruled out for offside—cutting short celebrations on the Stellenbosch bench, including coach Gavin Hunt.

Sundowns had earlier taken the lead through Katlego Ntsabeleng in the 26th minute, following a neat exchange with Arthur Sales. Despite dominating possession for large spells, the hosts were unable to extend their advantage.

Stellenbosch grew into the game, with Devin Titus and Olisa Ndah both going close, while goalkeeper Sage Stephens produced a key save late on to keep his side in contention.

The second half was far more open, with chances at both ends. Themba Zwane helped spark Sundowns’ attack off the bench, while efforts from Tashreeq Matthews and Khuliso Mudau struck the woodwork.

Mabasa’s late intervention ensured the points were shared, leaving Pirates top of the table on 58 points from 25 matches, while Sundowns move to 57 with a game in hand—setting up a tense finish to the title race.