Pirates and Sundowns learn MTN8 semi-final opponents

Defending champions Orlando Pirates will face Sekhukhune United in the semi-final of the MTN8 as they look to win the competition for a fifth successive year.

Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns will take on Golden Arrows, who eliminated Kaizer Chiefs, in the other semi-final.

Pirates had to do it the hard way as they needed a last-minute goal in extra time to beat a stubborn Durn City 2-1, having played out a 1-1 draw in 90 minutes on Saturday, and will now play away to Cedri Kaze’s Sekhukhune in the first leg of the semi-final.

Tricky draws for Pirates and Sundowns

It looks like a kind draw on paper for Pirates, who eliminated Sundowns in the semi-final last season, on their way to the final before winning a record extending fourth in a row.

Abdeslam Ouaddou’s team will be looking to complete the job early this time but Babina Noko will not be easy after edging a seven-goal thriller following a 4-3 victory over AmaZulu FC on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Sundowns will be keen to avoid a shocker after Arrows stunned Chiefs with a 1-0 win on Sunday.

Sundowns were also stretched in the quarter-final, where they needed an extra time goal from the returning Cassius Mailula to beat Polokwane City 3-2, after a 2-2 draw inside 90 minutes.

The dates and venues for the MTN8 semi-finals will be confirmed in due course.