Orlando Pirates defeat Sundowns in a dramatic penalty shootout to set up place in MTN 8 final. Image: News24.
(The Post News)– Orlando Pirates is through to its fourth MTN8 final. Pirates beat Mamelodi Sundowns in a penalty shootout at Luca Moripe Stadium today, 23 August 2025.
The MTN8 semi-final clash kicked off with both Sundowns and Pirates showing intent from the first whistle. In the first half, Sundowns had great form, immediately putting pressure on the Buccaneers with their dangerous attacking.
Orlando Pirates had ball possession, but they struggled to create goals in the first half. Much of the first half was marked by tight midfield battles–both teams stopped each other in a back-and-forth contest. Sundowns displayed their experience and strong organization out of possession. Their discipline paid off in the 17th minute when Iqraam Rayners found the back of the net. He gave Sundowns a 1–0 lead on the day and a 2–1 advantage on aggregate.
A few minutes after the goal, Sundowns controlled the threads of the match with patient ball circulation across the pitch. The Pirates pushed forward, but their efforts were often cut short, losing possession quickly once they reached the midfield line.
The Buccaneers began the second half with greater possession, showing more aggression as they sought to level the score. However, Sundowns absorbed the pressure and planned to hit back through swift counterattacks.
After relentless pressure, Pirates finally found their breakthrough in the 73rd minute when Mike Kamogelo Sebelebele scored. In the last ten minutes of the match, Pirates tried to score but Sundowns defenders stood in their way.
The match ended in 1–1, leaving the draw evenly balanced at 2–2 on aggregate. Sipho Chaine turned into the hero after saving penalties from Teboho Mokoena and Marcelo Allende, while Deon Hotto, Abdoulaye Mariko, Sipho Mbule, and Tshegofatso Mabasa scored for Pirates to win 4-1 and book their place in the final.
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