Orlando Pirates Stun Sundowns In Penalty Drama To Reach MTN8 Final

The MTN8 semifinal between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns had everything South African football fans live for: tension, missed chances, a comeback, and a penalty shootout that left Lucas Moripe Stadium holding its breath. In the end, it was the Buccaneers who triumphed, winning 4-1 on penalties to book their place in yet another cup final.

Sundowns Take Early Control

Sundowns looked on course to control the evening when Iqraam Rayners gave the home side the lead in the 17th minute, snapping up a rebound with a striker’s instinct. The Brazilians nearly doubled their advantage shortly after halftime, but Rayners’ low drive hit the upright, keeping Pirates alive.

For much of the match, Pirates were chasing the game. Ronwen Williams pulled off a stunning save to deny Thalente Mbatha, reminding everyone why he remains one of the most reliable goalkeepers in the country. But Pirates didn’t stop believing.

Pirates Fight Back

The breakthrough finally came in the 73rd minute when Kamogelo Sebelebele pounced on a loose ball in the Sundowns box after Oswin Appollis whipped in a dangerous cross. The equaliser sent the Buccaneers’ travelling fans into a frenzy, setting up a tense finish.

Both sides had chances to snatch it late on, but penalties were inevitable. For fans in the stands and those watching at home, it felt like déjà vu a reminder of how often South African cup ties end in dramatic shootouts.

Sipho Chaine’s Moment Of Glory

Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine etched his name into Buccaneers folklore by saving crucial spot-kicks from Teboho Mokoena and Marcelo Allende. His composure and timing gave Pirates the edge, and when Tshegofatso Mabasa calmly slotted home the decisive penalty, the Soweto giants were through.

A Soweto Side Marches On

For Pirates, this was more than just a semifinal win. Beating Sundowns the dominant force in South African football in recent years carries huge symbolic weight. The Buccaneers will now face either Sekhukhune United or Stellenbosch in the MTN8 final, a stage they know all too well.

Fan Reaction And Cultural Weight

Social media lit up after the final whistle. Pirates fans flooded X (formerly Twitter) with chants of “Up the Bucs!” while memes of Chaine wearing a superhero cape trended late into the night. For Soweto, this victory means more than bragging rights it’s a sign that Pirates are refusing to let Sundowns dominate the season unchallenged.

The MTN8 final now promises to be another blockbuster occasion, and whether it’s Sekhukhune or Stellenbosch, the Buccaneers will go in with confidence, knowing they have the spirit and resilience to beat anyone on their day.

Source: SABC Sport

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