Sundowns edge Arrows to set up Pirates final

By Razeen Gutta

Mamelodi Sundowns will face Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 final after both sides came through dramatic semi-final second legs this past weekend.

Sundowns survived a scare at King Zwelithini Stadium, beating Golden Arrows 3-2 to progress on away goals after a 3-3 aggregate draw.

Cassius Mailula opened the scoring in the 31st minute with his fourth goal of the season, finishing a quick move involving Marcelo Allende to give Masandawana a half-time lead.

Arrows hit back after the break when in-form Sede Junior Dion levelled in the 68th minute from Ronaldo van Neel’s cross, his third goal in as many games.

Allende restored Sundowns’ lead in the 77th minute before substitute Antonio Van Wyk scored in the 85th minute to make it 3-1.

Philani Khumalo pulled one back in stoppages, but Arrows could not force extra time.

Sundowns will now meet defending champions Pirates, who cruised past Sekhukhune United 3-0 at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, winning 4-0 on aggregate.

Thapelo Mokobodi and Ghampani Lungu struck before the break, with Kamogelo Sebelebele adding a late third, as the Buccaneers remain on course for a fifth successive MTN8 title.

The final will take place on 10 October 2026. The venue is yet to be announced.

Pictured above: Pirates progress!

Source: @orlandopirates