Saturday | October 7, 2023

Orlando Pirates Football Club (FC) defended their MTN8 Cup by overcoming favourites Mamelodi Sundowns FC 3-1 on penalties at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban tonight.

Contested in a packed to the rafters stands, the South African giants played to a goalless draw in 90 minutes regulation and 30 minutes extra-time. The blow won’t into the pitch disrupted the flow of the game as both teams canceled each out.

On penalties, Sundowns had the privilege to start and their first three kicks were saved by Sipho Chaine, Pirates shot-stopper. Meanwhile Pirates had the better of Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwin Williams and scored their first two spot kicks and missed the third.

By the time Sundowns tried to salvage the day when they netted on their fourth attempt, it was too little too late as Pirates slotted in their fourth.

It became impossible for Sundowns to claw back because of the earlier setbacks. Pirates had done enough though and were crowned the 2023 MTN8 Cup champions, emulating their last season’s success.