Mamelodi Sundowns coach paises Orlando Pirates star

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has pointed to one man as the reason his side won’t be playing in the MTN8 final: Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine.

Kabo Yellow saw their cup run end at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday after a tense semi-final second leg finished 1-1 and went to penalties. Chaine turned hero, pulling off two key saves to send Orlando Pirates through.

Sundowns’ Portuguese coach Miguel Cardoso was gracious in defeat, admitting the Buccaneers’ shot-stopper proved the difference.

ORLANDO PIRATES GOALKEEPER PRAISED BY MAMELODI SUNDOWNS COACH AFTER MTN8 HEROICS

Inside Kaizer Chiefs: Life after Maart leadership

Cardoso felt both legs of the tie were finely balanced, but accepted Orlando Pirates held their nerve when it mattered most.

“We knew we had to pay that price, but well then, it’s penalties,” Cardoso said. “Their goalkeeper was fantastic and it’s the difference of the game. Very equal game, I think 1-1 is a fair result.

Kaizer Chiefs transfer news: Three attackers

“I think 1-1 was also the fair result in the first game, very equal game, and they did well on penalties. Victory to Orlando Pirates, I must say congratulations,” Cardoso added.