Baroka FC vs Cape Town City Match Recap - Nov 2, 2025

In a fiercely contested match at the Mafori Mphahlele Stadium, Baroka FC secured a vital 3-1 victory against Cape Town City on November 2, sending shockwaves through the First Division standings. This win marked Baroka's first triumph of the season and provided them with a much-needed boost in confidence, helping them rise from 16th place as they look to navigate away from relegation.

Coming into this encounter, both teams were feeling the pressure of their respective league positions. Baroka, with only four points from nine matches, had been struggling under the weight of seven losses while Cape Town City was hovering precariously in 13th place with nine points from eight fixtures. Despite recent victories against The Bees and Midlands Wanderers, City hoped to build on their momentum, but they faced an unexpected challenge in Baroka.

From kickoff, it was clear that Baroka had come to play. They opened the scoring early in the match when Iqraam Rayners found the back of the net just ten minutes in. His well-placed shot sent waves of relief through a team that had gone nearly a month without a goal. The opening strike seemed to galvanize Baroka's players, who attacked with renewed energy and determination.

Minutes later, following an aggressive offensive press, Baroka doubled their lead when David Mathebula scored off a rebound after a relentless drive toward goal. The home crowd erupted in cheers, savoring each moment as their team showcased what could be possible if they continued this form.

However, Cape Town City eventually responded. They pulled one back late in the first half after a series of frantic exchanges near Baroka's box culminated in Ashley du Preez finding space and slotting home past the keeper. The goal reignited hope for City fans but left them searching for consistency that has often eluded them this season.

The second half began with City looking more dangerous as they sought an equalizer. Yet it was Baroka who struck again when midfielder Thabo Qalinge buried another shot to restore their two-goal advantage in the 66th minute. As his teammates rejoiced around him, Qalinge's goal reaffirmed Baroka's dominance on that afternoon.

Despite increased urgency from Cape Town City-their frustration palpable-they struggled to convert possession into quality chances against a resolute Baroka defense. Time slipped away as City pushed forward desperately seeking another goal but failing to find any rhythm or breakthrough against their opponents' organized backline.

With this victory, Baroka FC moved up from last place and began to believe in themselves again; three precious points lifted spirits on and off the field. They now prepare for their next match against Lerumo Lions on November 9 hoping they can carry this newfound momentum forward.

For Cape Town City, meanwhile, this loss compounds concerns about consistency as they face Black Leopards on November 8-a match where regaining form becomes critical if they wish to avoid heading deeper into mid-table obscurity.

As both teams reflect on today's contest-that blend of hope and desperation-it becomes evident how quickly fortunes can change in football. For Baroka FC, today represented not just three points but also redemption; for Cape Town City, it was yet another reminder of how swiftly progress can be undone by lacking execution when it matters most.