In a thrilling Soweto Derby clash, Orlando Pirates secured a 1-0 victory over Kaizer Chiefs at the FNB Stadium on Saturday, 1 February. The match was made even more special by the presence of former South African President Thabo Mbeki, who was in attendance to witness one of Africa’s biggest football rivalries.
President Mbeki’s influence on South African football history is profound, having played a key role in the country’s readmission into the global football community in 1989. His leadership led to South Africa’s reaffiliation with Fifa, marking the country’s return to international football after years of isolation.
The highly anticipated match drew thousands of passionate supporters, and President Mbeki’s presence was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices he and his fellow liberators made for South Africa. The nation remains grateful for their contributions, which shaped not only the country’s democracy but also its ability to compete on the world football stage.
In the match, Patrick Maswanganyi scored an ice-cold penalty deep in injury time to hand Orlando Pirates the victory. The win allows Pirates to cut the gap to leaders Mamelodi Sundowns to three points.
