Weekend Highlights: Pirates Win the Soweto Derby but Campaign Against Women Abuse Took Center Stage

One of the most anticipated football matches on African soil was dominated by Orlando Pirates, winning 3-1 and keeping them within four points of the leaders, Mamelodi Sundows (PSL’s Man City). However, this time, the headlines were about the women of South Africa. The nation’s major influencers in the form of the most loved beer, Carling Black Label, and the two Soweto giants came together for a post-match group photo in solidarity of the #noexcuse campaign. The message was clear, “whether your team lost a football match or you are just drunk, neither should be an excuse for gender-based violence.” Here at FirstTouch, we couldn't agree more. Read more about Soweto on Supersport.

ABSA PSL Monthly Awards

Chippa United gaffer, Tebogo Moloi was named the Absa Premiership Coach for the month of November while Mamelodi Sundows’ captain, Hlompo Kekana won the Player award. Moloi was credited for stabilizing Chippa who were unbeaten in November, conceding just two goal and also beating champions Bidvest Wits. Chippa are currently second behind Kekana’s team who is currently the symbol for fighting spirit, defensive work rate, leadership and scoring goals from the midfield in the ABSA premiership. Read more on the ABSA Awards here.

Tiki-Taka Football in Africa

Mamelodi Sundows nicknamed the “Brazilians” displaced Baroka FC at the summit of the ABSA premiership in South Africa with a 4-0 thumping at Lucas Moripe Stadium. It’s not the result that makes the headline but the scintillating football they displayed, hardly seen on the continent. From the sweeper keeper, Dennis Onyango (2016 CAF Player of the year) and Captain Kekana dictating the pace in the midfield while the runner up to Onyango’s award, Khama Billiat finding Percy Tau twice in slick movements. It was nothing but scintillating. With such displays, Africa’s football is surely becoming more tactical and won’t be less entertaining than in any part of the world.

In other ABSA matches, Supersport United and Orlando Pirates finished goalless while Maritzburg United beat Capetown City in 4-2 in a six goal thriller.