MTN8: Orlando Pirates name starting XI for Sekhukhune United semi-final

Orlando Pirates will defend a 1-0 advantage when they face Sekhukhune United in the second leg of their MTN8 semi-final at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday afternoon.

The Buccaneers secured victory in the opening match in Polokwane last weekend and followed that result with another win over Babina Noko on Tuesday, claiming a 2-0 success in the Betway Premiership.

Pirates therefore enter the decisive meeting with the upper hand, although their previous experience in this competition offers a warning. The club’s most recent defeat in an MTN8 second leg came against Stellenbosch FC in September 2023, when they were unable to protect their first-leg position.

Sekhukhune United are appearing in the final four of the competition for the first time. Their season has not delivered much momentum so far, but they remain within reach of the final despite the setback in the opening leg.

The visitors must produce a significant turnaround at the Orlando Arena. They need to score at least twice without conceding if they are to overturn the first-leg deficit in front of what is expected to be a passionate and intimidating home crowd.

The two clubs have met 14 times in total. Pirates have won eight of those encounters, while Sekhukhune United have recorded four victories and the other two matches have ended in draws.

Kick-off is scheduled for 15:00.

Orlando Pirates will start with Chaine in goal, behind a defence consisting of Sebelebele, Seema, Zulu and Ndaba. Selepe and Mthiyane are included in midfield, with Mokobodi, Lungu, Appollis and Mbuthuma completing the starting XI.

Orlando Pirates starting XI: Chaine, Sebelebele, Seema, Zulu, Ndaba, Selepe, Mthiyane, Mokobodi, Lungu, Appollis, Mbuthuma.

Substitutes: Dladla, Masilela, Dansin, Padime, Msendami, Chabatsane, Radiopane, Moremi, Hotto.

Sekhukhune United have selected Nsabata as their goalkeeper. Ndlozi, Matsimbi, Cardoso and Kazeem form the defensive line, while Khupe, Mkhize and Rammala are also named in the side. Mojela, Muzeu and Ndlovu will lead the visitors’ attacking effort.

Sekhukhune United starting XI: Nsabata, Ndlozi, Matsimbi, Cardoso, Kazeem, Khupe, Mkhize, Rammala, Mojela, Muzeu, Ndlovu.

Substitutes: Sapunga, Mobbie, Tlaka, Mcaba, Khiba, Mokoena, Phiri, Mahlangu.