Orlando Pirates Edge Stellenbosch Into MTN8 Final Despite Zakhele Lepasa’s Own Goal, Video

• Orlando Pirates will take on Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final despite their loss to Stellenbosch
• Iqraam Rayner's strike was deflected into the net by Zakhele Lepasa as the Stellies won the reverse fixture 1-0
• The Buccaneers had won the first leg 2-1, and they proceeded on the away goals rule after the tie ended 2-2 on aggregates

Orlando Pirates are through to the MTN8 final despite their 1-0 loss to Stellenbosch right inside the Orlando Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

The Buccaneers returned to action when they hosted the impressive Stellenbosch, having won the first leg 2-1 thanks to a 94th-minute Deon Hotto winner earlier this month.

But the second leg was totally different, as Iqraam Rayner's strike was deflected into the net by Zakhele Lepasa just 22 minutes into the game, and Stellenbosch took the lead.

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There were no further goals throughout the encounter despite both teams creating numerous chances.

However, Orlando Pirates proceeded to the final courtesy of the away goal rule after it ended 2-2 on aggregates.

Orlando Pirates will face Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final despite suffering their third straight defeat in all competitions.

Just before the return leg, Pirates coach Jose Riviero stated that the visitors would fight to reach the final. He said via IOL:

“The difference between the Cup games and league games is clear. Sunday is Sunday! There’s nothing else after Sunday for one of the two teams.

“We’ll go forward or go home. That’s the thing that changes approaches. It changes everything. Stellenbosch are not coming to Orlando for points, but to try and get to the final.”

Doctor Khumalo faults referee Luxolo Badi

Sports Brief earlier reported that former Kaizer Chiefs superstar Doctor Khumalo faulted referee Luxolo Badi for not awarding AmaKhosi a penalty against Mamelodi Sundowns.

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After the first leg clash of their 11th MTN8 semi-final ended 1-1, Masandawana went through following a 2-1 win in the reverse fixture.

Defender Thapelo Maseko had hacked the forward in the danger zone, but centre-referee Luxolo Badi waved play on.