Goalkeeper Fatau Dauda played his first competitive match for Orlando Pirates on Saturday and kept a clean sheet but his side lost 1-0 to Mamelodi Sundowns in the Absa Premiership.
The Ghana first choice took the place of Senzo Meyiwa, who picked up an injury, on 69 minutes at the Orlando Stadium.
Meyiwa had severe cramps in both legs and had to the taken off by new coach Eric Tinkler.
Dauda gave a good account of himself and prevented Sundowns from doubling the lead.
This comes as a huge relief for the Ghana international who is yearning for regular playing time to protect in place in the Black Stars for the 2014 World Cup finals.