Mamelodi Sundowns had Anthony Laffor to thank for their progression past Chippa United in the MTN8 semi-final.
Laffor, who was introduced in the 58th minute for Zakri, scored the only goal of the two legs in the 75th minute breaking a valiant resistance put up by Chippa.
Keagan Dolly almost got the match off to the perfect start in just the first minute for Pitso Mosimane’s men but was denied by Akpeyi as the visitors struggled to gain a foothold in the contest.
Zakri was prominent as the first half settled down but he failed to take advantage of some fine play by Khama Billiat in the 13th minute before Billiat failed to find the back of the net three minutes as Zakri turned provider.
Denis Onyango was forced into two fine saves midway through the first half as the Chilli Boys found their rhythm but neither side could find the breakthrough despite a growing number of chances.
The visitors took control of the tie in the second half as Ricardo Nascimento was called into action on a number of occasions to deal with the goal threat posed by Dan Malesela’s side. Malesela would see his side rue their failure to make dominance count as they went behind with 15 minutes to play.
Laffor’s goal came after some delightful teamwork from the likes of Percy Tau, Khama Billiat, Tiyani Mabunda and new signing Sibusiso Vilakazi.
The win sees Sundowns advance to the final to face last season’s PSL runners-up Wits at the Mbombela Stadium.
The Brazilians will now turn their attention to overturning a 2-1 aggregate in their CAF Champions League semi-finals when they welcome Zesco United on Saturday.