Orlando Pirates booked their place in the MTN8 semi-finals after a hard-fought 3-1 extra-time victory over SuperSport United at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
Monnapule Saleng was the star of the show, playing a pivotal role in all three Pirates goals.The Buccaneers extended their unbeaten run in the competition under coach Jose Riveiro, but the match was a closely contested affair.
Pirates opened the scoring through Olisa Ndah in the first half, but SuperSport leveled early in the second through ex-Pirates man Vincent Pule.
With the game heading for a penalty shootout, Saleng and Evidence Makgopa struck late to secure victory for the hosts.
There was further drama as Matsansatsa head coach Gavin Hunt was shown the red in the aftermath of Pirates’ third goal as he would lead the protest for a perceived offside in the build-up to Pirates’ third goal.
This marked the first time Pirates had defeated SuperSport in the MTN8, a rivalry spanning over a decade. The win sets up another semi-final clash for Pirates, who are aiming for a third consecutive MTN8 title.