MTN8: Cape Town City FC hold Orlando Pirates to draw in MTN8 semi-final first leg

City almost equalized three minutes later when Haashim Domingo set up Prins Tjiueza, but Sipho Chaine managed to deflect the Namibian’s effort, which hit the crossbar and went over. Darwin Gonzalez had a header on target in the 26th minute, but it lacked power, allowing Chaine to gather it easily. A minute later, Kamohelo Mokotjo’s long-range attempt was also comfortably saved by Chaine.

City enjoyed a good spell of attacking play around the half-hour mark, with Jaedin Rhodes narrowly missing the target and Atrocious Petrus sending his shot wide in the 33rd minute. Mofokeng responded with a shot over the bar just a minute later.

Five minutes before the break, Patrick Maswanganyi came close with a deflected shot from the edge of the area. Rhodes then forced another save from Chaine in the 45th minute, but Pirates held onto their 1-0 lead at halftime.

City began the second half with renewed attacking intent, searching for the equalizer. Pirates’ defence held firm, but City eventually broke through in the 61st minute. Rhodes, who was outstanding for Eric Tinkler’s side in the second half, levelled the score with a powerful shot from inside the area that Chaine couldn’t keep out.

City continued to press, and Rhodes nearly put them ahead five minutes later, but Chaine managed to tip his effort over the bar.

With fifteen minutes remaining, Pirates introduced their new signing Gilberto for his official debut since joining from Petro De Luanda. In the 80th minute, Pirates had a rare chance on the counterattack, but Keet made a crucial save to deny Deon Hotto from a tight angle.

In the end, the sides could not be separated ahead of Saturday’s second leg at Orlando Stadium.