Thrilling MTN8 Semifinal Ends in Draw Between Pirates and Sundowns
What a thrilling encounter! On Saturday, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns clashed in a captivating MTN8 first-leg semifinal at a bustling Orlando Stadium, ending in a tense 1-1 draw.
However, Sundowns can consider themselves lucky to escape with a draw. They endured considerable pressure during the second half, with the goalpost and several outstanding saves by goalkeeper Ronwen Williams keeping Pirates at bay.
This result follows Pirates’ recent success against Sundowns in this competition, having won four of their last five encounters, including the final of the 2023/24 season.
Both teams demonstrated their skills from the start, affirming their status as contenders for the title this season. Pirates made several notable adjustments to their starting team, with Evidence Makgopa, Deano van Rooyen, and Thalente Mbatha all receiving their inaugural starts. Conversely, Sundowns continued to miss Khuliso Mudau and Lucas Ribeiro Costa.
A pivotal moment occurred when Sundowns captain Themba Zwane was stretchered off in the 15th minute after what appeared to be a groin injury. His early departure posed a significant challenge to Sundowns’ creativity, and Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos will be anxiously awaiting updates on his condition ahead of the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Nigeria.
Sundowns opened the scoring in the 36th minute when Teboho Mokwena soared above everyone to powerfully head home a corner from Marcelo Allende. Shortly after, they nearly extended their lead, but Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine made a crucial save to deny Tashreeq Matthews from a close-range attempt.
Upon returning for the second half, Pirates came out with tenacity, applying immense pressure on Sundowns, hitting the woodwork and creating numerous clear chances.
Their determination paid off in the 87th minute when Mbekezeli Mbokazi capitalized on a defensive lapse and set up Kamogela Sebelebele, who skillfully slotted the ball past Ronwen Williams to level the score.
With the first leg finishing in a draw, everything hangs in the balance for the return leg at Lucas Moripe Stadium next Saturday. Sundowns know that a goalless draw would suffice for them to progress to the final, whereas Pirates must score at least two goals to advance.
