Orlando Pirates youngster Simphiwe Selepe makes first start of season in MTN8 win

Orlando Pirates youngster Simphiwe Selepe marked his first start of the campaign with 75 minutes in a 3-0 victory over Sekhukhune United, as the Buccaneers reached a fifth successive MTN8 final.

The result at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday secured a 4-0 aggregate win for Pirates over Babina Noko and set up a repeat of the 2023 Wafa Wafa final against Mamelodi Sundowns.

Selepe, 21, was handed a starting opportunity after competing for a place in a position where Pirates have several options. He made a positive impression during his time on the pitch as the home side controlled the tie and completed another convincing victory over Sekhukhune.

Pirates opened the scoring in the 36th minute. Yanela Mbuthuma created the chance, setting up Thapelo Mokobodi, who finished from close range to put the hosts in front.

Mbuthuma then supplied another assist before half-time. With six minutes remaining until the interval, he calmly picked out Ghampani Lungu, who extended Pirates’ advantage.

The third goal came in the 93rd minute, when winger Tshepang Moremi squared the ball to Kamogelo Sebelebele. The late strike completed the 3-0 win and confirmed Pirates’ 4-0 success on aggregate.

Selepe said his inclusion from the beginning was reward for the work he had put in since the start of the season. He also acknowledged that competition for places had made it important to take his chance.

“I think my starting for today [Saturday], bows down to the technical coaches putting belief between all of us as players,” he told the Pirates media.

“Since the season started, I have been pushing myself till now, so it was important for me to grab the opportunity that I was granted.”

The midfielder added that the depth in his position meant every appearance had to be treated as an opportunity to establish himself.

“It was really important for me to grab that opportunity, because as you know there is quite a few of us in that position. So, when I get an opportunity, I have to grab and hold on to it.”

Pirates’ victory was their second over Sekhukhune, although Selepe said the tie had been difficult despite the eventual margin of victory.

“It’s never an easy game playing against Sekhukhune. We beat them twice and they also said we cannot allow them to beat us for the third time.”

He admitted the opening period had been untidy but was pleased that Pirates had found a way to take control and progress.

“It was not an easy game; it was a bit scrappy in the first half, but at least we managed to score, we’re off to the next round.”

Pirates will now face Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final, repeating the 2023 Wafa Wafa showpiece fixture.

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