Durban City FC frustrate Orlando Pirates in goalless draw

Durban City FC held Orlando Pirates to a 0-0 draw in the Betway Premiership on Friday, 24 July 2026, leaving the 10th-placed side still searching for their first goal of the season.

The match at Kings Park Stadium saw both teams cancel each other out in a cagey affair. Durban City FC’s defence stood firm, with goalkeeper Siyabonga Mbatha pulling off three sharp saves to keep his side level. Orlando Pirates pushed hard but lacked the cutting edge in front of goal, with Sibusiso Vilakazi and Gift Motupa both denied by Mbatha’s sharp reactions.

What went wrong for Orlando Pirates?

Orlando Pirates dominated possession but failed to convert their pressure into goals. Their best chance fell to Sibusiso Vilakazi in the 34th minute, but Mbatha tipped his effort over the bar. Gift Motupa then blazed over from close range in the 56th minute after a quick break.

At the other end, Durban City FC nearly nicked a winner in the 78th minute when Sanele Mthembu’s volley rattled the crossbar. The rebound fell to Thabiso Mkhize, whose follow-up was blocked on the line by Richard Ofori.

Why the point matters for Durban City FC

The draw moves Durban City FC off the bottom of the Betway Premiership table. They remain the only side yet to score or concede a goal this season. Manager Thando Ngcobo praised his team’s organisation after the game.

“They defended well and kept their shape,” Ngcobo said. “We knew Pirates would come at us and we stayed compact. The point is a fair reward for our effort.”

Durban City FC sit 10th with zero points from their opening match. Their next fixture is away to Chippa United on 31 July 2026.

What’s next for both sides?

Orlando Pirates drop to second in the table after the draw, two points behind league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. They face SuperSport United next on 28 July 2026.

For Durban City FC, the focus turns to breaking their scoring duck when they visit Chippa United. Ngcobo’s side will need to find a cutting edge in attack if they are to climb off the bottom of the table. The next few weeks will be critical for both teams as the Betway Premiership gathers pace.