Lungu’s extra-time strike sends Orlando Pirates into MTN8 semi-finals

Gamphani Lungu scored in the closing stages of extra time on his Orlando Pirates debut to secure a 2-1 win over 10-man Durban City and send the defending champions into the MTN8 semi-finals.

The substitute, introduced during extra time, struck when the match appeared destined for a penalty shootout. Durban City had competed strongly despite playing with 10 men for most of the game, but Orlando Pirates eventually found the quality needed to settle the contest.

The Buccaneers are pursuing a fifth consecutive MTN8 title after winning the competition four times in a row. Their latest victory keeps that ambition on course.

Orlando Pirates had taken the lead through a first-half penalty from Patrick Maswanganyi, before Jean Lubumba equalised after the interval. Durban City resisted sustained pressure from the home side and frustrated Orlando Pirates for long periods, but Lungu’s late intervention ended their hopes.

Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou made one change to the side that defeated Milford 1-0 the previous week, with Nkosikhona Ndaba replacing Deon Hotto.

Durban City showed greater attacking intent than they had in last season’s goalless league draw with Pirates, although they struggled to turn that approach into clear opportunities. The first significant chance fell to the home team in the 20th minute, when Thalente Mbatha forced a save from Durban City goalkeeper Fredrick Asare.

Orlando Pirates controlled much of the opening half and created several opportunities, but they were unable to convert them. Yanele Mbuthuma came close soon afterwards, although he could not find the target.

The breakthrough arrived 10 minutes before half-time. Tshepang Moremi was brought down inside the penalty area by Brooklyn Poggenpoel, who was shown a straight red card. Maswanganyi took responsibility from the spot and made no mistake to put Pirates ahead.

Durban City offered little attacking threat before the break. Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine was largely untested and went into half-time without having to make a save from a shot on target.

The home side then suffered a setback when their captain, Nkosi, was replaced by Sbangani Zulu after the interval. Durban City took advantage of the change in momentum and drew level through Lubumba.

They improved considerably in the second half and did not appear to be a side playing with a numerical disadvantage. Orlando Pirates continued to create chances, but Asare produced important saves while Durban City’s defence protected its goal effectively from a deep position.

Despite throwing players forward, Pirates could not find a second goal during normal time. The match finished 1-1 after 90 minutes and went into extra time.

With penalties looming, Lungu made his decisive contribution. The substitute seized his opportunity late in extra time, scoring the winner and announcing his arrival at Orlando Pirates in dramatic fashion. уларниң