Nedbank Cup: Orlando Pirates stay in control to see off Marumo Gallants

Orlando Pirates defensive starlet Mbekezile Mbokazi. Photo Credit: Orlando Pirates

Orlando Pirates continued their excellent run in South Africa's Nedbank Cup on Sunday with a 1-0 semifinal victory over Marumo Gallants to advance to the final. The Bucs will now compete for their third consecutive Nedbank Cup trophy after winning the previous two editions.

Kabelo Dlamini scored the only goal of the match in the 22nd minute to complete an inspired team movement from the defending champions. The CAF Champions League semifinalists remained firmly in control throughout the match and dominated the ball, suffocating Gallants with well timed stretches of high pressure.

Patrick Maswanganyi, whose role has been reduced in recent weeks, took his opportunity well on the day with dazzling dribbling runs and the assist on Dlamini's first half goal.

Despite the introduction of star striker and former Pirates marksman Gabadinho Mhango at halftime, Gallants only posed the odd threat and struggled to find a way past the Bucs' vaunted defense led by veteran captain Nkosinathi Sibisi and rising star Mbekezile Mbokazi.

Pirates now await the winner of Sunday's later semifinal, a tasty clash between reigning Betway Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns and underachieving Kaizer Chiefs.