Orlando Pirates overcame league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns on Sunday following two early goals from Relebohile Mofokeng to reduce the point gap.

READ: Mofokeng double downs Mamelodi Sundowns

Coach Jose Riveiro reflected on his side’s performance against the Brazilians stating that the two early goals gave the Buccaneers the edge throughout the game however mostly in the first half.

In the second half, Mamelodi Sundowns pressed Pirates deep into their own half forcing the Soweto side to defend too deep for their liking and ability given the quality Sundowns possesses in creating chances in the final third.

Through their pressing and ball carrying play, Sundowns reduced Pirates expected goals (xG) to .07% as they increased their attempts at goal to eventually score a goal past the Buccaneers. Comparatively, Sundowns created two big chances in the second half to no chances created by Pirates’ attack.

To further elaborate on Sundowns’ dominance in the second half, the Brazilians had a total of seven shots inside and outside the box with 13 touches in their oppositions box to Pirates two attempts at goal and 1 touch in Sundowns box.

With that said, Pirates found a way to keep Sundowns at bay and grab all three points at the FNB Stadium to reduce the points gap between them and Sundowns to 15 points, with 12 points up for grabs (four games in hand) as an advantage to hopefully get to lift the title this season.

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