Orlando Pirates secured their place in a third consecutive MTN8 final after defeating Cape Town City 2-0 in the second leg of their semi-final clash at Orlando Stadium on Saturday. The victory ensured a 3-1 aggregate win, propelling the Buccaneers to yet another shot at glory in the prestigious South African competition.
The Buccaneers, unbeaten at home this season, entered the match with confidence and were determined to extend their winning streak on familiar territory.
Orlando Pirates dominated possession from the start, but Cape Town City provided moments of pressure that required the defensive prowess of Thabiso Sesane and goalkeeper Sipho Chaine to keep the visitors at bay during the opening exchanges.
However, most of the play unfolded in City’s half as Pirates gradually asserted control.
The breakthrough came in the 25th minute following a well-executed set-piece routine.
A short corner delivered by Relebohile Mofokeng found Tshegofatso Mabasa, who rose above the defense to head home his first goal of the season, placing the ball perfectly into the bottom corner.
As Pirates sought to double their lead, Thalente Mbatha attempted a speculative long-range effort in the 36th minute, but his shot sailed wide of the mark.
Nonetheless, the hosts continued to pile pressure on their opponents, and their persistence paid off just before halftime.
In the 44th minute, Deon Hotto doubled the Buccaneers’ advantage with a precise free kick taken from just outside the box, leaving Cape Town City goalkeeper Darren Keet with no chance as the ball nestled into the back of the net.
The second half saw Pirates emerge with the same intent, seeking to further distance themselves from the visitors.
Mabasa nearly made it 3-0 after capitalizing on a defensive mistake by Lorenzo Gordinho, but Keet produced a crucial save in a one-on-one situation to deny the striker.
Cape Town City struggled to create clear-cut opportunities but managed to test Chaine late in the game.
Heaven Seeretsi’s long-range shot was easily handled by the Pirates goalkeeper with just ten minutes remaining.
Despite City’s efforts, their attempts to get back into the game lacked precision, with Kayden Francis firing wide from distance.
In stoppage time, Pirates almost added a third goal through Evidence Makgopa, who attempted an acrobatic volley after connecting with a cross from Hotto, but his effort flew off target.
With this victory, Orlando Pirates advance to the MTN8 final, further solidifying their status as one of South Africa’s premier football teams.
The Buccaneers now look ahead to the opportunity to claim another piece of silverware, as they aim to continue their dominance in the domestic cup competitions.
