{"id":22935,"date":"2025-08-24T07:46:17","date_gmt":"2025-08-24T07:46:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/zentrofly.com\/?p=22935"},"modified":"2025-08-24T07:46:17","modified_gmt":"2025-08-24T07:46:17","slug":"pirates-knock-out-sundowns-book-spot-in-fourth-straight-mtn8-final","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/zentrofly.com\/jobs\/pirates-knock-out-sundowns-book-spot-in-fourth-straight-mtn8-final\/","title":{"rendered":"Pirates Knock Out Sundowns, Book Spot in Fourth Straight MTN8 Final"},"content":{"rendered":"\n


By: Mghadane<\/em>
August 23, 2025<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Orlando Pirates have once again proven their big-match temperament, defeating Mamelodi Sundowns in a dramatic penalty shootout<\/strong> to secure their place in the 2025 MTN8 final<\/strong> \u2014 their fourth consecutive appearance in the competition\u2019s showpiece.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After a tense two-legged tie that ended 2-2 on aggregate<\/strong>, it was goalkeeper Sipho Chaine<\/strong> who emerged as the hero at the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium, saving spot-kicks from Teboho Mokoena<\/strong> and Marcelo Allende<\/strong> to seal a 4-1 win in the shootout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Tactical Battle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou<\/strong> took a bold risk by starting Patrick Maswangayi<\/strong>, who had been rested in their league win over Stellenbosch. However, the midfielder struggled to find his rhythm and was substituted for Bandile Shandu<\/strong> midway through the first half.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sundowns, ever composed and disciplined, took control early on and broke the deadlock in the 17th minute<\/strong> through Iqraam Rayners<\/strong>, who capitalized on a defensive mix-up to put the Brazilians ahead 2-1 on aggregate going into the break.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sebelebele Strikes Again<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The second half turned into an end-to-end contest, with Pirates pushing desperately for a way back into the game. Their persistence finally paid off when Kamogelo Sebelebele<\/strong>, who had also scored in the first leg, found the equalizer with a clinical finish that reignited the Buccaneers\u2019 hopes and sent the match to penalties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chaine the Hero<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

In the shootout, Chaine showcased nerves of steel, stopping two crucial penalties to silence the home crowd. Deon Hotto, Abdoulaye Mariko, Sipho Mbule, and Tshegofatso Mabasa<\/strong> all converted their spot-kicks to secure a famous victory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Looking Ahead<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

With the win, Pirates set up a mouth-watering final against Stellenbosch FC<\/strong>, a repeat of last year\u2019s decider. The Buccaneers will be aiming to defend their crown and lift the MTN8 trophy for the third time in four years, further solidifying their reputation as cup specialists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fans can now look forward to another intense showdown as the Buccaneers chase more silverware in what promises to be a thrilling finale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Stellies Secure Second Consecutive MTN8 Final Spot<\/a><\/blockquote>