Orlando Pirates claim Nedbank Cup semi-final spot with win over AmaZulu

The sold-out arena witnessed a flurry of action, with the home side initially taking the lead just before the half-hour mark. 

Deon Hotto's deft backheel clearance found Hendrick Ekstein, who delivered a spectacular strike from outside the area, leaving goalkeeper Sipho Chaine helpless as the ball nestled into the bottom corner.

However, the Buccaneers quickly responded, capitalising on a controversial penalty decision. 

Taariq Fielies' challenge on Makhehlene Makhaula inside the box led to a spot-kick, expertly converted by Patrick Masangwanyi, levelling the score at 1-1 before halftime.

The second half saw Orlando Pirates seize control, as Kabelo Dlamini's precise free-kick left AmaZulu's Veli Mothwa rooted to the spot, giving the Buccaneers a 2-1 lead. Yet again, the momentum swung as Fielies rose to the occasion, nodding in a powerful header to restore parity for AmaZulu.

With tensions rising and the match hanging in the balance, Makhaula emerged as the hero for Orlando Pirates, scoring a late goal against his former club, securing a 3-2 lead. This marked Makhaula's first professional goal since 2017, a testament to his impact on the pitch.

As the game entered stoppage time, Masangwanyi sealed his brace with a clinical finish.

Orlando Pirates' victory sees them join Mamelodi Sundowns and Stellenbosch in the semi-finals of the Nedbank Cup, while TS Galaxy and Chippa United are set to battle for the remaining spot in the last four. 

READ MORE: Nedbank Cup: Stellenbosch thrash dismal SuperSport to seal semifinal place