Local football finally came to the Mother City to kickstart the 2024-25 season, and Cape Town City and Orlando Pirates rose to the occasion to deliver a high-tempo first-leg MTN8 semi-final at the Cape Town Stadium on Wednesday night.
Played under chilly but clear skies after the match was postponed from Tuesdays scheduled start due to the prevailing weather conditions, the tie finished level at 1-1, with goals in either half from Relebohile Mofokeng and Jaedin Rhodes respectively.
Pirates will have the advantage heading into the second leg, having scored the all-important away goal, but the Buccaneers were fortunate to hang on for the draw after an inspired performance by City in the second half.
The visitors, fresh from their 4-0 mauling of Disciples FC in their CAF Champions League clash last Friday evening, were the fastest out of the blocks.
Jose Riveiros team maintained their rhythm with fluid passing from the outset, forcing City to back-pedal early on.
