The Orlando Pirates team gained a significant advantage in the form of an away goal and a clean sheet before the second round of the MTN8 semi-finals, defeating Sekhukhune United 1-0 in the first match, which took place at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, which was well attended by spectators.
The only goal in the match was scored by Dion Hotto. Although Pirates could have scored more goals, they were satisfied that their defense functioned exactly as planned. Meanwhile, Babina Noko noted that the team could have played better, as although they occasionally created problems for Pirates while maintaining structure, they failed to breach the Pirates' defense, having only one shot on target for the entire match.
Since this match is the start of a three-match cycle, in which the teams will meet in the league on Tuesday evening at the Orlando Amstel Arena, and then play the MTN8 semi-final return match at the same arena three days later, Pirates coach Abdeslam Waddu was flexible in his approach, combining experienced players with newcomers.
Newcomers Simphive Masilela, Tapelo Mokobodi, and Mtheteleli Mthiyane, as well as veteran Dion Hotto, started in the lineup for the first time. Cedric Khase, on the other hand, did not have such an opportunity, as he played with the best players, including Melusi Buthelezi, the Pirates goalkeeper, who has played for the last two seasons.
Despite being away, Pirates dominated the game, much like the stadium was filled with fans. However, despite their superiority, Pirates struggled to break through Sekhukhune's compact midfield, which sought to use counterattacks when in possession.
Waddu abandoned his signature semi-final attire, wearing a tracksuit and a loose t-shirt to suit the occasion, considering the heat and the fact that this was the start of three consecutive games. The coach had to wait until the late stages of the first half before his team could create a goal threat, as Oswin Apollos and Dion Hotto forced former teammates to make saves from free kicks.
Ultimately, the 'Pirates' settled into a calmer state: Hotto executed a quick combination with Gampani Lungu down the flank, after which he finished the attack, carefully controlling the ball inside and powerfully striking the top of the net. Waddu, as usual, rushed to celebrate with the players, running half the pitch. This goal not only gave Pirates confidence before the break but also secured them an away goal advantage.
Pirates continued the game after the break, but it yielded no results. Already in the 65th minute, 'Ghost' found its voice, welcoming the debut of forward Sebastian Pedersen, known as 'Baby Haaland' due to his Norwegian origin, the homeland of Erling Haaland. Pedersen could not immediately delight the fans with a goal after his entry, directing his closest chance towards the stands after a run between the lines. Babina Noko also looked threatening on counterattacks. However, Sifo Chain and the Pirates' defense held firm, maintaining another clean sheet before the upcoming home matches on Tuesday and Saturday.