Orlando Pirates reach fifth successive MTN8 final after aggregate win over Sekhukhune United

Orlando Pirates reached a fifth successive MTN8 final with a 4-0 aggregate victory over Sekhukhune United, continuing their unbeaten start under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

Pirates carried a 1-0 advantage into the second leg after winning at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium last weekend. They then strengthened their position with a 2-0 midweek victory over Sekhukhune in Orlando, leaving them confident of completing a third consecutive win against Babina Noko.

The result also provided a strong response to questions surrounding Pirates’ transfer business after the departures of two of their most influential attacking players.

Relebohile Mofokeng has moved to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, while Patrick Maswanganyi joined Al Khaldiya. The moves removed two of the club’s leading creative players and contributors to goals, prompting debate over whether Pirates had done enough to replace them in the transfer market.

For now, their performances have answered those concerns. Pirates remain unbeaten, sit top of the table and have secured their place in the MTN8 final under Ouaddou.

They effectively settled the tie before half-time in the second leg, taking a 3-0 aggregate lead. Yanela Mbuthuma was central to the decisive spell, producing two excellent assists in quick succession.

The forward set up Thapelo Mokobodi and Giamphani Lungu for simple finishes, leaving Sekhukhune requiring four goals after the interval to overturn the deficit.

Mbuthuma’s contribution was particularly significant given the recent lack of confidence surrounding him during his goal drought. The sold-out eSgodini responded by chanting his name, creating what would have been an emotional moment for the player.

Sekhukhune were also without head coach Cedric Kaze on the touchline, as he served a suspension. In an attempt to change the course of the contest, they pushed centre-back Bright Ndlovu forward to lead the attack alongside Namibia international Bethuel Mezeu.

Mezeu was making his first start for the club since joining during the off-season from Black Leopards.

Pirates concentrated on protecting their advantage during the second half, although they faced periods of pressure as Sekhukhune committed players forward in search of a way back into the match. The visitors threw everything at the tie but were unable to find a response.

Orlando Pirates eventually put the outcome beyond doubt in the 93rd minute when Kamogelo Sebelebele completed a superbly constructed move to make it 4-0 on aggregate.

The Buccaneers will now meet either Golden Arrows or Mamelodi Sundowns in the final. Those sides play the second leg in KwaZulu-Natal tomorrow, with Pitso Dladla’s Golden Arrows holding a 1-0 aggregate lead.