MTN8 Semi-Final Matchups Set After Kaizer Chiefs Exit the Tournament
The Premier Soccer League has finalized the MTN8 semi-final pairings following the elimination of Kaizer Chiefs by Golden Arrows. Defending champions Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns remain on opposite sides of the bracket.
Key takeaways
- Orlando Pirates will face Sekhukhune United in the first semi-final matchup.
- Mamelodi Sundowns are scheduled to host Golden Arrows in their first-leg tie.
- Kaizer Chiefs were eliminated from the competition following a 1-0 loss to Golden Arrows.
- The tournament favorites, Pirates and Sundowns, cannot meet until the final.
What Happened
The semi-final draw for the MTN8 competition took place on Sunday at FNB Stadium immediately following the final quarter-final match. The lineup features Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns, Sekhukhune United, and Golden Arrows. Kaizer Chiefs were the most notable absence from the final four after suffering a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Golden Arrows.
Orlando Pirates advanced after a 2-1 victory over Durban City. Mamelodi Sundowns required extra time to secure a 3-2 win against Polokwane City. Sekhukhune United also progressed via a 3-2 scoreline in their match against AmaZulu. The draw was structured so that the two highest-profile teams, Pirates and Sundowns, will not meet until a potential final.
The Semi-Final Draw
The draw determined that Sekhukhune United will serve as the home team for the first leg against the defending champions, Orlando Pirates. In the second semi-final pairing, Mamelodi Sundowns will host Golden Arrows for their opening leg. These two-legged ties will determine which clubs advance to the final match.
Background
Orlando Pirates enter the semi-finals as the current title holders. In the 2023 edition of the tournament, Pirates and Sundowns met in the final, where the Buccaneers secured the trophy following a penalty shootout. Both teams are considered favorites to return to the final, though their opponents, Sekhukhune United and Golden Arrows, have already demonstrated their capacity for upsets during the quarter-final round.
What Happens Next
The Premier Soccer League (PSL) is expected to announce the specific dates, venues, and kick-off times for both the first and second legs of the semi-finals. Winners from these aggregate matchups will compete for the MTN8 championship title.
Sources reviewed
Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.
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