Orlando Pirates have been crowned MTN8 champions for the third consecutive time, defeating Stellenbosch 3-1 at the packed Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.

However, the manner of the win and the controversial second goal scored by Tshegofatso Mabasa will likely be discussed extensively on social media. Referee Abongile Tom is also expected to be a trending topic.

Mabasa’s goal was quickly scored after Tom awarded a foul, allowing Relebohile Mofokeng to set up the former Bloemfontein Celtic striker. Mofokeng also scored Pirates’ third goal, securing their third consecutive MTN8 title and making them the first team to achieve this feat in the PSL era.

Coach Riveiro chose to start Evidence Makgopa up top instead of Mabasa, who had been the preferred choice after winning the PSL Golden Shoe last season.

It was clear why Riveiro opted for Makgopa, as he dropped deeper to collect the ball and scored two goals against Polokwane City two weeks ago. Makgopa also started the Nedbank Cup final last season against Mamelodi Sundowns, offering Pirates more than Mabasa. It was a significant decision, as was the choice to leave Mofokeng on the bench.

Stellenbosch was the first to start the game as Bradley Mojela stunned Pirates with a swiveling overhead kick to score the opener in the 12th minute inside the box. Mojela has been in good form since joining TS Galaxy at the start of the season. He scored in the second leg of this competition against Mamelodi Sundowns at the same venue in Durban.

Mojela also scored for TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout Cup when Stellenbosch lost to his former club. Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker didn’t celebrate much, knowing it was early in the game and Pirates, a formidable force in cup competitions, could come back.

Pirates struggled to find their rhythm, with Patrick Maswanganyi losing possession frequently. Stellenbosch’s defensive pressure limited Pirates’ space and time.

As Stellenbosch led, Pirates needed to respond, as they had done in several finals, such as the Nedbank Cup against Sekhukhune United and Bidvest Wits in the past.

Stellenbosch continued to keep Pirates on the back foot, with Ibrahim Jabaar testing Sipho Chaine’s goalkeeping skills. Pirates slowly grew into the game and scored through Deon Hotto’s free kick, which Monnapule Saleng finished off just before halftime. The stadium erupted with cheers from the dominant Pirates fans.

Pirates started the second half strongly, with Hotto hitting the upright. Mofokeng was brought on for Innocent Maela, and Hotto moved to left-back.

Mofokeng had a chance to give Pirates the lead for the first time in the game. Kabelo Dlamini’s lofted ball found Mofokeng, but Stellenbosch goalkeeper Sage Stephens made a crucial save.

With ten minutes remaining, Stellenbosch attacker Devin Titus had a great opportunity to extend their lead but missed from close range, much to the frustration of coach Steve Barker.

Just as the game seemed heading for a draw, Pirates scored two late goals through Mabasa, followed by a third from Mofokeng, who left Stephens on the floor before scoring into an empty net.