Marumo Gallants will approach their crucial Nedbank Cup semi-final against Orlando Pirates in Soweto as if it was the final itself.
For Gallants, it’s one of the biggest matches of their season, as simply reaching the final brings its own reward. The Buccaneers are the back-to-back defending champions in South Africa’s richest cup competition, and they won’t be easy to beat – especially on home turf.
That said, Gallants recently shocked Pirates with a 2-0 victory in Bloemfontein in a Premier Soccer League clash. That result sparked the club’s turnaround, which has seen them climb out of the league’s relegation zone for now – though the job is far from done.
Bringing silverware to the Bloemfontein is a major goal, but to do that, they’ll need to upset the Soweto giants once again. Reaching the final will also secure them a spot in next season’s CAF Confederation Cup.
Gallants defender, Matome Mathiane, who scored the equaliser against SuperSport United in Bloemfontein on Saturday, told Bloemfontein Courant that motivation won’t be an issue when facing the Sea Robbers. The potential of playing continental football adds even more fuel to their fire.
“We’re very confident about the game. We know what we’re up against and we’re well prepared,” said Mathiane.
“There’s a lot of self-motivation. We all know what’s at stake – if we win, we qualify for CAF and get a chance to play continental football.
“For us, this match is like a final because it gives us two big opportunities: playing in the CAF Confederation Cup and contesting the Nedbank Cup final.
“Our strikers need to make the most of the chances we create. Even the small opportunities – we have to convert them. And at the back, we must stay solid.”
Meanwhile, Zimbabwean international goalkeeper Washington Arubi has recovered from the fractured finger he sustained during the league win over Pirates in Soweto, and he may be in contention for selection.
The big semi-final at Orlando Stadium kicks off at 15:00 on Sunday. – MORGAN PIEK
