1-0 win gives Pirates advantage
Orlando Pirates won 1-0 against Sekhukhune United in the first leg of the MTN8 semifinal at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday. The lone goal, scored by Deon Hotto in the 45th minute, gave the Buccaneers a 1-0 advantage and an away goal for the decisive match at Orlando Amstel Arena next week. The victory extends Pirates’ unbeaten run in the competition to 11 matches.
Early pressure and missed chances
From the opening whistle, Pirates pressed hard. A turnover by striker Yanela Mbuthuma created a chance for Simphiwe Masilela, who fired just wide on his run-on debut. Sekhukhune had early opportunities, including a corner in the seventh minute that Bright Ndlovu failed to convert and a free-kick from Thapelo Mokobodi that skipper Nkosinathi Sibisi mis-fired.
Set-piece threat
Both sides produced several set-piece chances. Deon Hotto and Oswin Appollis drew saves from goalkeeper Melusi Buthelezi, while Kamogelo Sebelebele forced a low save from the ex-Pirates shot-stopper. Pirates’ defensive work was highlighted when Sekhukhune’s Thabo Nkwana ghosted past defenders before being cleared by Sipho Chaine.
The decisive moment
In the 45th minute, a neat build-up involving Masilela, Appollis and Gamphani Lungu culminated in Hotto’s left-foot finish from close range, giving Pirates the only goal of the match. The goal came just one minute before half-time, setting the tone for a confident second half.
Second half action
Pirates started the second half strongly, with Appollis threatening from distance and Lungu and Kgositsile creating space. Sekhukhune’s only notable chance came in the 58th minute when Nkwana tested Chaine, who cleared the ball. Pirates’ debutant Sebastian Pedersen had a late effort that drifted wide, while Lungu’s shot in the 87th minute was off target.
Final lineup
Pirates XI: Chaine, Seema, Sibisi, Sebelebele, Hotto (Rapoo 80’), Mokobodi (Selepe 65’), Mthiyane, Masilela (Dansin 46’), Lungu, Appollis (Kgositsile 65’), Mbuthuma (Pedersen 65’).
The Buccaneers will now look to maintain their advantage in the second leg, where a win would see them progress to the MTN8 final.
