Photo by SABC News (Twitter)

Orlando Pirates advanced to the Carling Knockout Cup semi-finals after edging Sekhukhune United 1-0 in their quarter-final at Orlando Amstel Arena in Soweto on Saturday afternoon.

The defending champions secured the result with a first-half goal from Mpho Padime, who was named man of the match.

His 30th-minute strike proved decisive in a contest that sent Pirates through to the last four and ended Sekhukhune’s cup campaign.

The result extended Pirates’ winning run against Sekhukhune this season. The teams had met three times before Saturday’s match, with the Buccaneers winning each encounter. Sekhukhune were seeking a different outcome in the knockout tie, but could not find an equaliser after falling behind.

Sekhukhune had an early opportunity to take the lead. Nigerian striker Chibuike Ohizu went down inside the penalty area, but the referee judged that no foul had occurred and allowed play to continue.

The decision came as the visitors looked to unsettle Pirates early and turn the quarter-final in their favour.

Pirates gradually took control and found the breakthrough in the 30th minute. Padime’s goal gave the home side the advantage and put them on course for a place in the semi-finals.

Sekhukhune were then required to chase the match, while Pirates sought to protect their lead and manage the closing stages.

The narrow scoreline ensured the tie remained competitive, with Sekhukhune needing only one goal to force a different outcome.

However, the visitors were unable to convert their opportunities, and Pirates held on to complete a fourth victory over their opponents this season.

For Pirates, the win keeps alive their hopes of retaining the Carling Knockout Cup. The club entered the quarter-final as defending champions and will now await the semi-final draw or confirmation of their next opponent.

Their progress also adds another knockout victory to a season in which they have repeatedly come out on top against Sekhukhune.

Sekhukhune, meanwhile, will turn their attention back to their remaining fixtures after being eliminated from the competition.

Their early penalty appeal offered a glimpse of the challenge they posed, but Padime’s goal ultimately separated the sides.

The match at Orlando Amstel Arena was settled by a single moment in the first half. With the referee’s decision on Ohizu’s early fall standing and no further goals reported, Pirates’ 1-0 advantage carried them through to the final four.

Pirates will now look to build on the result as they continue their defence of the trophy.

Saturday’s victory maintained their strong record against Sekhukhune this season and ensured the Buccaneers remain among the contenders for the Carling Knockout Cup title.

Source And Reference (Twitter)

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