MTN8 semi-final line-up confirmed as Orlando Pirates face Sekhukhune United

The Premier Soccer League has confirmed the schedule for this season’s MTN8 semi-finals, with defending champions Orlando Pirates drawn against Sekhukhune United and Mamelodi Sundowns set to face Golden Arrows for a place in the final.

The last-four ties will be played over two legs, beginning on Saturday when Sekhukhune United host Orlando Pirates at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium. The match will kick off at 15:00.

Mamelodi Sundowns will begin their semi-final against Golden Arrows the following day, with the first leg scheduled for 15:00 at Lucas Moripe Stadium.

The return fixtures will be played one week later. Orlando Pirates will host Sekhukhune United at Orlando Amstel Arena, while Golden Arrows will welcome Mamelodi Sundowns to King Zwelithini Stadium.

Eight teams entered this year’s MTN8, but the quarter-finals reduced the field to four. Kaizer Chiefs, AmaZulu, Durban City and Richards Bay were all eliminated.

Orlando Pirates, the competition’s defending champions, required extra-time to overcome Durban City 2-1 and keep their title defence alive.

Sekhukhune United progressed after an entertaining quarter-final against AmaZulu, winning 4-3 in a seven-goal contest. Babina Noko advanced at the expense of Arthur Zwane’s side, who are also known as Usuthu.

Mamelodi Sundowns were pushed all the way by Polokwane City before securing a 3-2 extra-time victory. Golden Arrows produced the only away win of the quarter-final stage, defeating record champions Kaizer Chiefs 1-0 at FNB Stadium.

The results leave Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns among the leading contenders for the trophy, although both must first negotiate two difficult semi-final ties. Sekhukhune United will have home advantage in the opening match of their contest, while Sundowns will start their tie at home against Golden Arrows.

The MTN8 is contested by the top eight teams from the previous Premier Soccer League season, with the semi-final winners advancing to the final. The Premier Soccer League’s announcement confirms the venues and kick-off times for the opening matches, as well as the locations of the decisive second legs.

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