Orlando Pirates were made to work hard for their place in the MTN8 semi-finals, eventually securing a dramatic victory over 10-man Durban City at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
The Buccaneers dominated large periods of the match but were frustrated by a resilient Durban City side. The visitors were reduced to 10 men late in the first half when Brooklyn Poggenpoel received his marching orders after conceding a penalty. Patrick Maswanganyi calmly converted from the spot to give Pirates the lead.
However, Durban City refused to surrender and produced a stunning response in the second half. Jean Lumumba finished from close range to level the score, forcing the contest into extra time despite Pirates’ continued dominance.
The Buccaneers created numerous chances, with Tshepang Moremi striking the woodwork and several late efforts going close. Just when penalties appeared inevitable, substitute Gamphani Lungu delivered the decisive moment.
Lungu pounced on a loose clearance from a Pirates corner and unleashed a superb volley from the edge of the box, firing the Buccaneers into the MTN8 semi-finals.
The dramatic victory keeps Orlando Pirates’ title defence alive as they become the first team to book their place in the final four of this season’s competition.
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