Orlando Pirates have qualified for the Carling Black Label Knockout Cup semi-finals after their 2-1 win over the defending champions, Magesi FC, at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday night.
The Soweto giants came into this match seeking revenge for what happened last season when Dikwena Tsa Meetse eliminated them in this tournament’s Round of 16, suffering a 3-2 defeat at home.
Pirates commenced the match on a high note, seeking an early goal, with Nkosikhona Ndaba and Tshepang Moremi linking up on the flank before working the ball towards Yanela Mbuthuma, who drew a save from Magesi goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze in the sixth minute of the contest.
The Sea Robbers continued probing, taking control of the showdown, with Masindi Nemtajela firing a shot that was saved by Chipezeze.
As the first half progressed, Pirates kept coming at the visitors, determined to go into the interval with a goal, but it was never meant to be at that time.
ORLANDO PIRATES AND MAGESI FC LEVEL AT HALF-TIME
The two teams went into the half-time break with Pirates and Magesi failing to find the back of the net.
As the first half, Pirates totally dominated the John Maduka-coached side, registering nine goal attempts and six shots on target.
In the second stanza, Pirates began the game in a similar fashion, taking command of the showpiece.
As the second half progressed, the hosts showed signs that they would soon break the deadlock, as Oswin Appollis’ effort from range rattled the crossbar.
In the 51st minute of the match, the on-form Tshepang Moremi finally opened the scoring for Pirates, thanks to Nkosikhona Ndaba’s assist.
Just three minutes before the match could come to an end, Bafana Bafana star Evidence Makgopa added to the scoreline to seal a win for the Buccaneers at home.
In the stoppage time of the second half, Lehlogonolo Mokone scored the consolation goal for Magesi.
However, Magesi couldn’t bounce back in the showpiece, with Pirates ensuring that they walked away victorious tonight.
As a result, the ‘Happy People’ knocked out the defending champions, Magesi, to advance to the Carling Knockout semi-finals.
Pirates are the third side to book their spot in the tournament’s semi-finals, joining the likes of Richards Bay FC and Golden Arrows.
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