Young forward Mpho Padime capitalised on a first-half defensive mix-up to score the game's only goal as Orlando Pirates ground out a 1–0 win over Sekhukhune United to reach the Carling Knockout last four.

Image: Backpagepix

Orlando Pirates (1) 1 Padime 31’

Sekhukhune United (0) 0

Orlando Pirates booked their place in the Carling Knockout semi-finals alongside Mamelodi Sundowns after edging Sekhukhune United 1–0 at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday.

In a contest that took time to come to life, it was a moment of fortune that ultimately separated the two sides, with young Mpho Padime capitalising on a defensive lapse to hand the Buccaneers a crucial advantage.

After a cagey opening 30 minutes, Pirates found the breakthrough in the 31st minute when Tshepang Moremi delivered a dangerous cross into the Sekhukhune penalty area.

The visitors’ defence struggled to deal with the delivery, allowing the ball to travel through to the far post, where the unmarked Padime was perfectly positioned to take advantage.

Mpho Padime makes his first start for Pirates count ⚽️💥 Our panel of experts break down the first goal of the match 🗣️ 📺 Stream #CarlingKnockoutCup on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc https://t.co/WR25lG69E1

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) November 7, 2026

The 20-year-old showed composure amid the chaos, gathering himself before poking the ball into the back of the net for his second goal of the season.

It was hardly a vintage first-half performance from the Buccaneers, who looked unusually flat despite enjoying home support, struggling to impose themselves on the contest for extended periods.

For Sekhukhune, the goal was another frustrating setback against an opponent that has become a difficult obstacle to overcome.

Having suffered three consecutive defeats against Pirates heading into the encounter, Babina Noko were facing the prospect of another disappointing result against the Soweto giants.

They went into the interval trailing by a goal, knowing that an improved second-half showing would be required to keep their cup ambitions alive.

Pirates, meanwhile, had done enough to establish the advantage, although their performance left room for improvement as they looked to protect their slender lead and move one step closer to Carling Knockout glory.