Kamogelo Sebelebele strike rescues Orlando Pirates against Mamelodi Sundowns in MTN8 thriller

Pirates were desperate for a result after back-to-back defeats in the Betway Premiership against Sekhukhune United and Marumo Gallants, a run that has placed head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou under immense pressure.

To steady his side, the coach made several changes, recalling the likes of Thalente Mbatha and Evidence Makgopa to the starting line-up.

Both teams signalled their attacking intent early on, with goals by Tashreeq Matthews for Sundowns and Sebelebele for Pirates disallowed for offside.

Downs were then dealt a major blow when skipper Themba Zwane was forced off through injury and replaced by Jayden Adams.

The deadlock was broken after the half-hour mark, as Teboho Mokoena powered home a well-taken header from a corner.

Minutes later, Sundowns nearly doubled their advantage, but Pirates keeper Sipho Chaine produced a superb double save to deny Arthur Sales and Matthews, keeping the hosts in the game at the break.

The second half saw Pirates pressing for an equaliser, but Makgopa wasted opportunities by holding onto the ball too long. At the other end, Chaine once again denied Sundowns, this time thwarting Iqraam Rayners.

Pirates had their best chance in the 77th minute when Makgopa, one-on-one with Downs goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, shot straight at the keeper before seeing his header moments later crash against the upright.

Just when time seemed to be running out, Sebelebele delivered the equaliser, breaking down the left before firing a low shot past Williams to secure a 1-1 draw.

The result leaves the semi-final finely balanced ahead of the decisive second leg on 23 August at Lucas Moripe Stadium.