Sebelebele saves the day for Pirates

THIS was meant to be a national dialogue — two of the best sides in the land exchanging ideas on how they plan to reign supreme but it almost turned out to be a monologue.

- MIHLALI BALEKA

Mamelodi Sundowns, the reigning kings of South African football, were close to once again making a mockery of their rivals Orlando Pirates, until they conceded late.

Sundowns drew 1-1 with Pirates in the MTN8 semifinal first leg at a packed Orlando Stadium yesterday afternoon, but they showed exactly why they’ve been the dominant force.

The Brazilians produced a solid and controlled performance that signaled their intent to dominate this season - despite the challenges of losing key players.

This result also mounted further pressure on Pirates’ new commander-in-chief, Abdeslam Ouaddou, who came into the match on the back of consecutive defeats in the Betway Premiership.

Ouaddou's critics had argued that he was too quick to chop and change his side, favouring new signings instead of building on the foundation laid by his predecessor, Jose Riveiro.