Orlando Pirates edge Sekhukhune United to reach Carling Knockout semi-finals

Orlando Pirates moved closer to retaining their Carling Knockout crown with a hard-fought 1-0 quarter-final win over Sekhukhune United at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday afternoon.

The defending champions controlled much of an entertaining contest but were made to work for their place in the last four. Pirates missed a number of chances to put the result beyond doubt, allowing Sekhukhune to remain within reach of an equaliser until the final whistle.

Pirates started with attacking intent and almost took the lead after eight minutes. Deon Hotto sent a high cross into the penalty area, but Gamphani Lungu’s diving header flew into the side netting.

The home side continued to pose a threat, although Sekhukhune’s defence was generally able to contain their forward movement. The visitors also showed their attacking potential on the break, with Chibuike Ohizu forcing Sipho Chaine into a quick reaction to gather the ball in the 13th minute.

Sekhukhune came close again six minutes later when Mpho Padime struck from distance. His effort had Chaine beaten but travelled narrowly over the crossbar.

Pirates finally broke through in the 31st minute after executing a well-rehearsed set-piece. Tshepang Moremi delivered the ball into the box, where Padime finished decisively to put the Buccaneers 1-0 ahead.

Sekhukhune responded by pushing for a leveller. Tshepo Mokoena was unable to find the target in the 39th minute, before Simphiwe Masilela tested the goalkeeper with another long-range attempt shortly before the interval. Emmanuel Sapunga was equal to it, parrying the shot away.

The opening 10 minutes after the restart passed without a clear opportunity, as neither side was able to keep consistent possession or build sustained pressure.

Pirates then brought on Oswin Appollis, whose introduction added urgency to their attack. He set up Sifiso Luthuli, but the chance was not converted, and Appollis went close himself in the 68th minute when Sapunga saved his effort.

Moremi later had a strong opportunity to settle the tie, but he lifted his shot over the crossbar with only the goalkeeper to beat.

Sekhukhune continued to search for a way back into the match and nearly punished Pirates late on through Thabo Nkwana. Chaine, however, made an important save to protect his side’s narrow advantage.

Pirates held on to book their place in the semi-finals, while Sekhukhune United’s Carling Knockout campaign came to an end.