Staff Reporter.
Orlando Pirates have qualified for the Carling Black Label Knockout Cup semi-finals after their 2-1 win over the defending champions, Magesi FC.
Pirates joined Richards Bay and Golden Arrows in the semifinals of the South African League Cup.
Elvis Chipezeze frustrated Pirates in the first half by producing six great saves to deny the likes of Patrick Maswanganyi, Masindi Nemtajela and Yanela Mbuthuma, who also hit the crossbar.
In the 33rd minute. Tshepang Moremi delivered a wonderful cross for Mbuthuma, whose powerful header from point-blank range was fantastically saved by Chipezeze and the score was 0-0 during the halftime break.
Chipezeze, who is the reigning Carling Knockout Player of the Tournament, was finally beaten six minutes into the second half.
It took something special to beat the experienced shot-stopper as Moremi hit the back of the net with a thunderous shot from just outside the box, which sailed into the top corner to hand Pirates a 1-0 lead.
Inspired substitute Evidence Makgopa made it 2-0 in the 87th minute when he beat Chipezeze with a low shot, with Maswanganyi providing the assist.
The hosts then went to sleep in stoppage time and Magesi pulled one back through Lehlogonolo Mokone, but Pirates held on to secure a 2-1 win on the night.
Meanwhile 14 clubs have officially qualified for the 2025/26 CAF Champions League Group Stage, with two remaining spots to be decided next week.
Al Ahly SC (EGY), Al-Hilal (SDN), AS FAR Rabat (MAR), Esperance (TUN), JS Kabylie (ALG), Mamelodi Sundowns (RSA), MC Alger (ALG), Petro de Luanda (ANG), Power Dynamos (ZAM), Rivers United (NGR), Simba SC (TAN), Stade Malien (MAL), St. Éloi Lupopo (DRC), Young Africans (TAN).
Compiled by Lehlohonolo Lehana.