Player form could tip the balance in Sundowns vs Pirates semi-final second leg

The first leg of the MTN8 semi-final saw Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates play out a tense 1-1 draw at Orlando Stadium on August 16. 

Sundowns initially dominated, with Teboho Mokoena scoring a long-range stunner in the 12th minute, but Pirates showed resilience, with Kamogelo Sebelebele netting his first goal for the club to equalise in the 87th minute. 

While Sundowns held 56% possession and created more chances, their inability to convert kept Pirates in the tie. Notably, away goals do not count double in the MTN8, meaning a draw in the second leg would force extra time or penalties.

The Buccaneers enter the second leg as defending MTN8 champions, having won the competition three seasons in a row under coach Jose Riveiro. Mamelodi Sundowns, led by coach Miguel Cardoso, will be determined to overcome their recent cup hoodoo, having lost to Pirates in both the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup finals in the 2023/24 campaign. 

Injuries could play a role, with Sundowns missing Khuliso Mudau and Pirates sweating on Olisa Ndah’s fitness. Predictions favour Sundowns with a slight edge due to home advantage, with a 2-1 victory predicted, but the possibility of penalties looms large.

Yet, whatever the pundits and the betting sites have to say, it’s the players who will have the final say, and soccer fans can be sure that the players will give their all on Saturday.

Several players delivered standout performances in the first leg, and one can almost depend on them again, pushing themselves for their team and their fans, and for that coveted spot in the MTN8 final.

Who can forget Mamelodi Sundowns’ Zuko Mdunyelwa, the Man of the Match at right-back, who effectively restricted attacks from Pirates' Relebohile Mofokeng and Deon Hotto, forcing the home side to adjust their strategy.

Also, let’s not overlook Kamogelo Sebelebele from Orlando Pirates, whose pace on the right wing constantly troubled Sundowns' defence, culminating in his crucial equalising goal. Then there’s his teammate Mbekezeli Mbokazi. The stand-in captain delivered a mature defensive performance and provided the long-range assist for Sebelebele's goal.

And then, back on the other end of the pitch, Arthur Sales, the Brazilian winger, showcased excellent close control, constantly threatening the Pirates' defence and creating scoring opportunities.