Orlando Pirates have taken another step towards a historic fifth consecutive MTN8 title after defeating Durban City 2-1 after extra time in a dramatic quarter-final at the Orlando Amstel Arena.
The Buccaneers were forced to work for their victory after Durban City fought back from a first-half deficit to level the contest and push the match beyond 90 minutes.
The result keeps Pirates’ remarkable MTN8 run alive, having won the competition in each of the previous four seasons.
Pirates Strike Late to Seal Victory
The match appeared destined for penalties before Lungu produced the decisive moment in the second half of extra time.
With the clock approaching the final stages, Lungu unleashed a powerful volley from inside the box that gave Durban City goalkeeper Sangare no chance.
The goal sparked celebrations from the home supporters and ultimately secured a 2-1 victory for the Buccaneers.
Pirates Take the Lead
The opening half was closely contested, but the game changed dramatically in the 33rd minute.
Durban City’s Poggenpoel was shown a second yellow card after bringing down Moremi inside the area, leaving the visitors with 10 men and handing Pirates a penalty.
Maswanganyi stepped up and calmly sent Sangare the wrong way to give Orlando Pirates a 1-0 lead.
Despite playing against 10 men, however, Durban City refused to collapse.
Durban City Fight Back
The visitors came out strongly after the interval and found their equaliser in the 52nd minute.
Lubumba finished from close range after excellent work on the right involving Shandu and Sirino, restoring parity at 1-1.
Pirates continued to create opportunities, but Durban City goalkeeper Sangare produced several important saves to keep his side in the contest.
The match remained level after 90 minutes, forcing the quarter-final into extra time.
Extra Time Drama
Both sides had opportunities during the additional 30 minutes.
Moremi saw a free-kick crash against the crossbar early in extra time, while Chaine and Sangare were both called upon to keep their respective teams alive.
Pirates eventually found the breakthrough in the 119th minute when Lungu’s spectacular volley settled the contest.
Final score: Orlando Pirates 2-1 Durban City.
Pirates Continue Remarkable MTN8 Run
The Buccaneers entered the match with four consecutive MTN8 titles behind them.
Their remarkable run began in 2022, when they defeated AmaZulu 1-0 in the final. Pirates then retained the trophy in 2023 before beating Stellenbosch 3-1 in 2024 and 3-0 after extra time in 2025.
The latest victory moves them one step closer to an unprecedented fifth straight MTN8 crown.
Durban City, meanwhile, bow out after mounting a spirited challenge against the defending champions. The Citizens had entered the competition with confidence after winning the Nedbank Cup earlier in 2026.
Final Score
MTN8 Quarter-Final
Orlando Pirates 2-1 Durban City
Orlando Amstel Arena
After extra time
Goals:
Maswanganyi — Orlando Pirates
Lubumba — Durban City
Lungu — Orlando Pirates
Orlando Pirates march on to the MTN8 semi-finals.
