Key Takeaways from Orlando Pirates vs Mamelodi Sundowns MTN8 First Leg

Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns played out a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their MTN8 clash at Orlando Stadium, setting up a decisive second leg at Lucas Moripe Stadium this Saturday. Soccer Laduma identifies the key talking points from the opening encounter.

Kamogelo Sebelebele shone for Pirates. The former TS Galaxy winger made his first start and scored the equaliser, giving Pirates hope ahead of the second leg. He was a constant threat on the right wing, making forward runs and tracking back to limit Sundowns’ left back Aubrey Modiba. His contribution went beyond scoring, impacting both attack and defence.

Sundowns may face a setback if captain Themba Zwane misses the second leg. Zwane left the field early with a suspected thigh injury, and his replacement Jayden Adams struggled to influence the game. Sundowns will need another player capable of driving the attack if Zwane is unavailable.

Pirates’ set-piece issues remain unresolved. They conceded the opener from a Marcelo Allende corner, with Teboho Mokoena finding space to score as Deano van Rooyen failed to close him down. This weakness will need attention before the return leg.

Striker efficiency is a concern for Pirates. Evidence Makgopa started up front and worked to hold up play and link teammates, but he spent too much time outside the box and lacked clinical finishing when in scoring positions. Pirates will benefit from a poacher who can consistently convert chances.

Arthur Sales is emerging as a key figure for Sundowns. With Lucas Ribeiro Costa absent, Sales has more freedom in attack and showed early signs of being Sundowns’ main creative threat. His movement and ability to find space could be decisive in the second leg.

Patrick Maswanganyi and Relebohile Mofokeng, Pirates’ key attacking midfielders, struggled to influence the first leg. Their form will be crucial if Pirates are to overturn the deficit and challenge Sundowns effectively.

The second leg promises to be competitive. Pirates must tighten defence, improve finishing, and rely on their creative players, while Sundowns will look to exploit Sales’ influence and maintain consistency in attack.