Orlando Pirates reach record fifth successive MTN8 final after emphatic Sekhukhune United win

Orlando Pirates have reached a record fifth consecutive MTN8 final after beating Sekhukhune United 3-0 in the second leg of their semi-final.

The result gave the Buccaneers a 4-0 aggregate victory and extended their remarkable run in the competition. Pirates had carried a 1-0 advantage into the return match after winning the first leg in Polokwane, but they refused to settle for simply protecting their lead.

Thapelo Mokobodi and Ghampani Lungu struck before half-time to put the hosts firmly in control. Kamogelo Sebelebele then added a third in stoppage time, completing a decisive victory and securing Pirates’ place in the final.

The result also completed a hat-trick of wins against Babina Noko. Pirates had already beaten Sekhukhune in the opening leg of the MTN8 tie and followed that with a 2-0 league victory earlier in the week.

Head coach Ouaddou said his side’s approach was to remain positive and aggressive, particularly after Sekhukhune adopted a more defensive shape.

“The boys did really well, good organisation, good discipline. Again, three goals, clean sheet from the boys. So if we take feedback of these three games, I think it was a successful mission. Well done, well done. Credit has to be given to them and we move on. I think game by game we are starting to improve. There are still some areas to work on, but a lot of positive today from the boys. Well done to them,” said Ouaddou.

Pirates have been rebuilding their attacking approach after the departures of Relebohile Mofokeng and Patrick Maswanganyi, two players who made significant contributions in the number 10 role.

Their exits have required the technical staff to develop different methods of moving the ball through midfield. Ouaddou acknowledged that replacing footballers of their quality has been difficult, but insisted their absence could not be used to explain away any shortcomings.

The Moroccan coach said his duty was to improve the players who remain at the club and establish a fresh identity for the team. He also stressed that producing a side capable of challenging consistently for trophies would take time, particularly while his ideas continue to be introduced.

Ouaddou wants Pirates to play with intensity and move the ball quickly, but said his philosophy is not limited to maintaining a high tempo. His players must also make the right choices and perform effectively in every phase of the game.

The MTN8 final will give Pirates the opportunity to continue their record sequence of appearances in the competition’s showpiece match. Their latest victory, however, also offered evidence of progress as Ouaddou’s squad adjusts to its changes in attack and develops a new way of playing.