Marumo Gallants and Stellenbosch FC will clash on Wednesday evening at Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium in Mangaung, Bloemfontein, for the last remaining spot in the semi-finals of the Carling Knockout Cup. Kick-off is at 7pm.
Both sides reached this quarterfinal stage after stunning victories over South African football giants. Gallants famously knocked out Mamelodi Sundowns with a 7–6 win on penalties, while Stellenbosch edged Kaizer Chiefs 5 – 4 in another penalty shootout. Both encounters ended goalless in regulation time three weeks ago.
Stellenbosch, who have been balancing domestic and continental commitments, enter this clash full of confidence. The Cape Winelands side recently booked their place in the CAF Confederation Cup second round after a 4 – 1 aggregate victory over Angola’s 15 de Agosto. This was followed by a thrilling 4–3 league win over Golden Arrows.
Coach Steve Barker said his team is fully focused on continuing their winning momentum.
Getting the job done
“Unlike league matches where points are at stake, in cup games you have to focus differently. Because once you lose, you’re out,” Barker said. “We have to get the job done so we can move on and focus on the other competitions.”
He added that Stellenbosch are not prioritising any specific competition. “Ideally, we want to win all of them if the opportunity comes.”
Meanwhile, Marumo Gallants will not be taken lightly. Their elimination of Sundowns sent shockwaves through the tournament, proving they are serious contenders. The Limpopo-based side also heads into this fixture on a high after a 2–1 league win over Chippa United.
The winner of tonight’s match will join Golden Arrows, Richards Bay, and Orlando Pirates in the semifinals of this year’s Carling Knockout Cup.
Pirates booked their place in the semifinals after they narrowly beat the defending champions, Magesi FC. They beat them with a 2-1 drubbing at the packed Orlando Stadium on Tuesday night.
