ORLANDO Pirates were sent packing from the Nedbank Cup after suffering a dramatic defeat to minnows Casric Stars FC at Orlando Amstel Arena in Soweto on Saturday, 21 February.
The Buccaneers hosted the Motsepe Foundation Championship outfit in a gripping Last 16 clash, but it was the visitors who emerged victorious after a tense penalty shootout.
From the first whistle, both sides showed intent as they searched for the opener. Pirates tried to stamp their authority at home, but Casric refused to be intimidated.
The underdogs played with heart and belief, matching the Soweto giants stride for stride over 120 minutes of intense cup action. With the match deadlocked after regulation time and extra time, penalties were needed to separate the two sides.
ALSO READ | Galaxy shock Sundowns in Nedbank Cup Last 16Opens in new window
Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi missed the opening spot-kick, immediately piling pressure on the hosts. Although goalkeeper Sipho Chaine produced a vital save from Casric's third penalty to keep hope alive, Pirates faltered when it mattered most.
Mpho Chabatsane and Nkosikhona Ndaba both missed their penalties, handing Casric the edge they needed to wrap up a famous win.
Casric held their nerve to claim a 5-4 victory in the shootout, sealing a stunning upset in Soweto.
The result also means that South Africa's traditional "Big Three" Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs have all been eliminated from this season's Nedbank Cup, opening the door for a new champion to be crowned.
Other results:
Golden Arrows 1 - 0 Stellenbosch FC
Durban City 2 -0 Upington City (Pen)
