2025 Carling Knockout Final: Pirates Beat Gallants to Become Champions
Orlando Pirates have won the 2025 Carling Knockout, defeating Marumo Gallants 1–0 after extra time at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, thanks to a decisive goal from Relebohile Mofokeng in the 105th minute.
The final, broadcast live on SABC 1 and SABC+, delivered high intensity from the first whistle, with Pirates nearly taking the lead just seven minutes in when Washington Arubi spilled the ball, forcing defender Sikhosana into a critical goalline rescue to deny Evidence Makgopa.
Moments later, Oswin Appollis created a superb chance for Bandile Lebitso, who fired over, before Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha forced Arubi into a brilliant save in the 12th minute. Gallants were under pressure again after 21 minutes when Makhehleni Makhaula was cautioned for a heavy collision with Bance, who required medical attention.
Referee Akhona Makalima had to intervene again in the 37th minute, issuing a warning to Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo for pushing Mbokazi as tensions rose. Gallants suffered a setback just before the break when Mabuza needed treatment following a knock.
Both sides went to halftime locked at 0-0, with the Buccaneers edging the momentum.
Pirates continued probing in the second half and extra time but were consistently denied by Arubi, who produced another strong save to stop Sipho Mbule in the 55th minute of play (extra-time timeline combined).
The breakthrough finally arrived in 105 minutes, when Relebohile Mofokeng broke free inside the box and fired home the winning goal, sending the Pirates bench and supporters into celebration. Moments later, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou withdrew the goalscorer, bringing on Nkosinathi Sibisi to help close out the match.
Pirates held firm through the final minutes to secure the victory and lift their second major trophy of the season.
FULL-TIME:
Orlando Pirates 1–0 Marumo Gallants
(Goal: Mofokeng 105’)
The Buccaneers are Carling Knockout Champions.
More updates, reaction and analysis to follow.