Pirates edge Sundowns to keep MTN8 hopes alive

image: Internet

by Lwandiso Simanga 

Orlando Pirates battled to a 1-1 draw against Mamelodi Sundowns, with the tie ending 2-2 on aggregate, keeping the Buccaneers on course for a fourth consecutive MTN8 title.

The Brazilians struck first after 16 minutes when Iqraam Rayners, continuing his fine form, pounced on a rebound to slot past Sipho Chaine. It was his third goal of the competition, cementing his role as Sundowns’ danger man.

Pirates responded through rising star Kamogelo Sebelebele, who once again found the net after equalising in the first leg. The youngster has now scored in three consecutive games for the Buccaneers, underlining his growing importance to the side.

image: Internet

Earlier, Relebohile Mofokeng had set up Evidence Makgopa with a clever chip, but the striker squandered the chance. Deon Hotto also failed to capitalise from a promising free-kick opportunity in the seventh minute, firing straight into the wall.

Despite Sundowns’ early dominance, Pirates showed resilience to level matters, frustrating their hosts and proving their mettle in knockout football. With the aggregate score tied, the Buccaneers’ ability to rise in crucial moments once again kept their MTN8 ambitions alive.

image: Internet

The result leaves Pirates eyeing yet another piece of silverware, as they look to extend their remarkable run in South Africa’s premier knockout competition.