The Bloemfontein-based Marumo Gallants are set for another showdown against Soweto giants Orlando Pirates – this time in the semi-final of the Nedbank Cup at Orlando Stadium.
On Sunday, Gallants secured their place in the semi-final for the second time this season after defeating Durban City FC on penalties at Chatsworth Stadium in Durban during the quarter-final.
The match ended in a goalless stalemate after extra time, forcing a penalty shootout to decide the winner. Gallants were clinical from the spot, while Durban City faltered – one shot struck the crossbar, and Gallants goalkeeper Kagiso Mlambo saved the next attempt, securing a 4-1 victory.
Gallants skipper Edgar Manaka acknowledged that they were pushed to their limits by the National First Division leaders but credited their cup experience for the win.
“It was a very tough game against a strong opponent,” said Manaka. “Durban City is a fantastic team – we knew it would be difficult because they wanted it just as much as we did. At times, we played into their hands, but as Marumo, we understand cup football. In this competition, patience is key. It’s also helping us build momentum in the league.”
Pirates, meanwhile, advanced by beating SuperSport United 5-4 on penalties after their quarter-final in Polokwane ended in a 2-2 draw.
Recently, Gallants stunned the highly favoured Buccaneers with a 2-0 win in a Premier Soccer League match at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.
The PSL is yet to confirm the dates and kick-off times for the Nedbank Cup semi-finals.- MORGAN PIEK
