Nedbank Cup: Orlando Pirates score in extra-time to send Kaizer Chiefs packing

Nedbank Cup: Orlando Pirates score in extra-time to send Kaizer Chiefs packing

A goal from Sandile Mthethwa deep into extra time saw Orlando Pirates defeat Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 in a pulsating Nedbank Cup semi-final in front of a packed FNB Stadium.

Chiefs had their goalkeeper Brandon Peterson, as well as Edmilson Dove and Samkelo Zwane back in the team, while the Buccaneers had Miguel Timm and Kabelo Dlamini returning from suspension.

Pirates seemed to be coming off second best in the opening exchanges, so it was somewhat of a surprise when they took the lead in the 14th minute.

While Christian Saile had a golden opportunity to put Amakhosi ahead just moments earlier, it was the Buccaneers who struck when Monnapule Saleng dribbled past a couple of defenders and provided a cross for Kermit Erasmus, who only needed to apply the simplest of finishes.

Chiefs attempted to respond immediately, with Yusuf Maart's long-range shot skimming the post two minutes later.

Saleng continued to cause trouble for Chiefs and nearly doubled Pirates' lead when he sent a curling free-kick only just wide of the post.

But Chiefs finished the first half strongest with decent chances falling to both Saile and Siyabonga Ngezana, though it was Pirates who took a one-goal lead into half-time.

In the second half, Pirates pushed hard for a second goal, but Erasmus and Terrence Dzvukamanja both had attempts that failed to find the back of the net. Chiefs also had an opportunity to level the score when Hlanti missed a header from a decent delivery.

But with under ten minutes remaining, Maart scored a well-deserved equalizer for Chiefs to send half of the FNB Stadium into a frenzy.

With no further goals, it was left to extra time to decide the winner, and Pirates almost clinched the win through Dean Hotto's powerful strike, but Peterson made a crucial save to deny them.

It only delayed the inevitable, however, as Sandile Mthethwa's 114th-minute header from Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo's cross secured a famous victory for the Buccaneers with only four minutes left on the clock.