The Kaizer Chiefs reserve squad made a remarkable comeback from a goal down to clinch a 2-1 victory over their long-standing rivals, Orlando Pirates, in a DStv Diski Challenge encounter at Dobsonville Stadium on Saturday afternoon, wrapping up the year with this thrilling match.

Chiefs nearly took the initiative in the 15th minute when Naledi Hlongwane unleashed a shot from inside the box that required a save from Ethan Visagie, the Pirates goalkeeper. The rebound led to a corner, which was successfully cleared.

Just five minutes later, Siphamandla Msezane found himself face-to-face with Chiefs goalkeeper Takalani Mazhamba, who adeptly anticipated the danger and forced the Pirates striker wide.

Amakhosi came close to scoring again right before halftime, as Makhubo Matlala’s delicate chip caused Mmatlou Sepale to clear the ball off the line, but his header fell to Chiefs players, resulting in another crucial save by Visagie.

The Buccaneers believed they had taken the lead when Neo Mokoena’s powerful shot hit the post; however, the ball stayed out and was cleared by Ntandoyenkosi Nkosi, keeping the match scoreless at halftime.

The Sea Robbers posed their first significant threat of the second half when Mokoena made an impressive run down the left and laid it off for Cemran Dansin, whose attempt just grazed the crossbar in the 58th minute. Sepale finally broke the deadlock for Joseph Makhanya’s side with a well-placed shot from close range in the 74th minute, but the hosts quickly responded with a penalty just four minutes later, skillfully converted by Aden McCarthy to level the score.

In a dramatic turn, Chiefs delivered the lethal blow in the first minute of stoppage time, securing all three points and ascending to second place with 27 points, only two behind reigning champions Stellenbosch FC. Meanwhile, the Buccaneers remain in eighth place.

In other developments, SuperSport United also found the net late on as substitute Manelis Mazibuko scored from a cross inside the box, clinching vital points for the Tshwane side.

Matsatsantsa a Pitori has climbed to fourth in the DStv Diski Challenge rankings with 25 points from 13 matches, recording seven wins, four draws, and two losses this season.