POLOKWANE – City fans turned out in full force as the new Peter Mokaba Stadium reached full capacity on Saturday for the highly anticipated Carling Knockout final between Orlando Pirates, known as the Buccaneers, and Marumo Gallants.

Excitement filled the air long before kickoff, with thousands of supporters streaming into the stadium hours ahead of the match.

The build-up was electrified by a pre-match performance from Makhadzi, leaving the crowd roaring in anticipation.

The atmosphere reached fever pitch as Orlando Pirates took to the field for their final fixture before the season break. Marumo Gallants, entering the final with confidence and determination, ensured a tense contest for their opponents.

The first half was energetic from both sides. Buccaneers striker Evidence Makgopa made an early attempt in the third minute, setting the tone for a game filled with near misses.

Midfielder Thalente Mbatha followed up with a long-range effort, only for Gallants goalkeeper Washington Arubi to make a superb save. Orlando Pirates dominated possession, creating multiple chances through Masindi Nemtajela, Relebohile Mofokeng, and Lebone Seema, but could not break the deadlock.

The second half mirrored the first, with Pirates continuing to press, but Arubi stood firm, denying every attempt.

With neither team able to score in regulation time, the match went into extra time. It was Mofokeng, lively throughout the match, who finally made the difference, delivering a shot that caused chaos at the goalmouth before crossing the line, sending Pirates fans into a frenzy.

Gallants pushed hard for an equaliser, but Pirates held firm to seal their victory.

The win secured Orlando Pirates’ first Carling Knockout title in 14 years, rewarding the passionate supporters who came out in numbers to back their team.