How Chaine Masters The Spot Kick

Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine has downplayed his penalty-saving heroics, stating that his success against top players like Mamelodi Sundowns’ Teboho Mokoena is a result of thorough preparation, not magic.

Chaine was a key figure in Pirates’ 4-1 penalty shootout victory over Sundowns in the second leg of the MTN8 semifinal at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday.

He saved crucial spot kicks from both Mokoena and Marcelo Allende, securing his team’s place in the final.

This isn’t the first time Chaine has gotten the better of Mokoena from the spot. The reigning PSL Goalkeeper of the Season also saved a penalty from Mokoena in the 2023/24 MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium, a match where the Pirates ultimately prevailed.

Following their win, Pirates will now face Stellenbosch in the final on 13 September, a repeat of last season’s final. It will be the club’s fourth consecutive MTN8 final, having already won the last three in a row.

“Tebza in particular?” Chaine said during an interview with SuperSport TV.

“I try to do as much homework as we can. He is one of the best takers, but sometimes he goes right, sometimes he goes left, and it’s very difficult in the moment, but like I said, I’m glad that it went my way.”

Chaine added that staying composed is crucial during high-pressure situations like a penalty shootout.

“I tried to stay calm as much as possible, although it’s a very high-pressure situation,” he explained.

“I tried today. I tried. It wasn’t easy. And I’m glad it went the right way for me. We know playing Sundowns, with the top, top kickers that they have, it’s no easy task to save these penalties, and I’m glad that we came out victorious.”

While the venue for the upcoming MTN8 final is yet to be confirmed by the PSL, sources have indicated that the match will likely be held in Durban for the fifth consecutive time.