Hotto & Mabasa send Pirates to MTN8 final

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The duo scored in the first half to ensure the Soweto giants have a chance to win their third title in the competition in as many seasons.

Goals from Tshegofatso Mabasa and Deon Hotto were enough to help Orlando Pirates seal their MTN8 with a 3-1 aggregate win over Cape Town City.

The first leg played at the DHL Cape Town Stadium on Wednesday ended in a 1-1 draw despite the many chances created by either side.

The Buccaneers needed a win or at least a goalless draw at Orlando Stadium to get their final ticket.

Mabasa on target as Hotto shows class

Bucs were in the mood from the first whistle, pushing their opponents for an early goal. After missing some good chances, the ball finally landed on Pirates sensation attacker Relebohile Mofokeng.

The 19-year-old teenager teed up Mabasa who did well to beat Darren Keet and give the home team a 25th-minute lead.

It seemed only one goal would separate the two sides, in the first half, after chances went begging, but Namibia international Hotto had other ideas. The Citizens conceded a free-kick in a good position and the versatile attacker scored via a deflection.

Who will Pirates play in the final?

The Buccaneers continued to attack with intent after the pause, but some good defending coupled with great goalkeeping prevented them from getting more goals.

The Jose Riveiro team now stands a chance of becoming the first team in the country to win the competition three times in a row.

Bucs will play the winner between Stellenbosch and Mamelodi Sundowns. The teams will be playing their second leg on Sunday at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. Stellies won the first leg away by a solitary goal.

<!-- Author Start -->Willis Sob<!-- Author End -->

Willis Sob

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Willis Sob is an experienced journalist who has been in the game since 2009, covering major assignments around the continent.
His hunger for African football is unmatched, always getting the best angles and facts to feed the fans and quench their thirst.