MTN8 semi-finals deliver drama, draw leaves Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns on knife-edge
Premier Soccer League
Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was solid between the posts as Mamelodi Sundowns battled to a 1-1 draw with Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 semi-final first leg. Photo: Itumeleng English Independent Media
Image: Itumeleng English Independent Media
After the weekend’s explosive MTN8 semi-final first-leg action between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, there is still no clear pointer as to which team will reach the final, following a 1-all draw.
In the other semi-final first leg, Stellenbosch FC have one foot in the final after a 2-0 win over Sekhukhune United on a Winelands cabbage patch that is the Danie Craven Stadium.
On the field of action, the major talking points emerged as the two semi-finals wound their course ahead of the second legs next weekend. Here are five talking points:
Themba Zwane is destined for the sidelines again
It was meant to be a triumphant comeback season for 36-year-old Themba Zwane, who has battled injuries for the past 18 months, but he has been laid low once more. The Sundowns talisman left the pitch early in the first leg against bitter rivals Orlando Pirates, raising concerns about the extent of his latest setback. Despite his attempts to continue, the seasoned player quickly realised he could go no further and exited the field accompanied by medical staff. Let’s hope the injury won’t keep him out for long.
Brain fade and emotions hamstring Sundowns’ campaign
In the aftermath of Saturday’s 1-all draw, Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso criticised the team’s inability to maintain composure, noting a decline in “brainwork” and decision-making. With the second leg on the horizon, Sundowns will be aiming to eradicate the ‘brain fade’ and ensure emotions don’t dictate the outcome.
Pirates’ Sebelelele looks like the best buy of the transfer window
Kamogelo Sebelelele, who joined Pirates from TS Galaxy this window, is already standing out. Technically gifted, aggressive and rapid, he is a nightmare for opponents on the right wing. On Saturday, he showed his versatility when coach Abdeslam Ouaddou moved him to defence — yet he still managed to surge forward to score the equaliser in the dying minutes.
Coach Ouaddou predicts Pirates sensation Mbokazi is Euro-bound
After the match, all eyes were on 19-year-old centre-back Mbekezeli Mbokazi. Ouaddou praised the young captain’s composure and defensive prowess, which kept Sundowns’ threats, particularly Iqraam Rayners and Arthur Sales, at bay. Ouaddou went so far as to suggest that if Mbokazi continues this form, a future at a top European club awaits.
Tinkler roundly condemns the slip-and-slide at Stellies
Who will forget Sead Ramovic’s scathing comments about the Danie Craven Stadium pitch last season? On Saturday, Sekhukhune United coach Eric Tinkler echoed the sentiment, lamenting the heavy surface worsened by rain and recent rugby fixtures. Victorious Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker, meanwhile, praised his team for adapting to the conditions better than their opponents.