Orlando Pirates secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Siwelele FC at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday afternoon, booking their spot in the quarterfinals of the Carling Knockout.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s stunning long-range goal in the 87th minute proved to be the difference-maker for the Buccaneers, who dominated the game but struggled to find the back of the net until the final minutes.

The match was a highly anticipated encounter, with Pirates looking to build on their impressive form and Siwelele seeking to cause an upset.

The Buccaneers started strong, creating several scoring opportunities in the first 20 minutes.

They were awarded a penalty in the fourth minute after Keabetswe Khonyane fouled Evidence Makgopa inside the box, but Makgopa’s effort hit the post.

Despite the missed penalty, Pirates continued to press for a goal, with Deon Hotto delivering a beautiful cross into the box that was ultimately wasted due to a lack of communication between Makgopa and Oswin Appollis.

Siwelele also had chances to open the scoring, but Grant Margeman’s shot went wide, and Sipho Chaine made an easy save from Christian Saile’s effort on the stroke of halftime.

The second half saw coach Abdeslam Ouaddou make tactical changes, introducing Abdoulaye Mariko and later Kamogelo Sebelebele and Tshegofatso Mabasa to strengthen the attack.

Sebelebele came close to scoring in the 75th minute, but his shot was saved by Siwelele goalkeeper Samkelo Xulu.

The Buccaneers continued to push for a goal, and their efforts were finally rewarded when Mbokazi scored a stunning long-range goal from outside the box.

With this victory, Pirates will now take a well-deserved break for the FIFA international break and return on October 17 to face their CAF Champions League opponents.

The win is a significant boost for the team, and Mbokazi’s goal will surely be remembered as one of the highlights of the season.