Kaizer Chiefs ended their search for silverware after 10 seasons when they won the Nedbank Cup at the end of the last campaign, but the Carling Knockout remains elusive, even if the club have won the various versions of the League Cup more than any other team.

Chiefs are, by some distance, the record holders for wins in South Africa’s League Cup with 13 since the competition was first introduced in 1982 as the Datsun Challenge. It has also been known as the JPS Knockout Cup, Coca-Cola Cup, Rothmans Cup and Telkom Knockout. The next highest is Mamelodi Sundowns on four, meaning the AmaKhosi have more than three times the number of wins as anyone else.

But more recently, they have found it a tough competition to crack, with their last victory coming all the way back in 2010.

🚨#𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐊𝐧𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐚𝐥𝐞 🚨

Tickets for the Round of 16 matches in the Carling Knockout are on sale at Open Tickets online and nationwide for R60.

🎟️: https://t.co/uph7nsuqBG pic.twitter.com/pNNbZQl8gy

— Official PSL (@OfficialPSL) September 30, 2025

They have been to just one final since then, in 2015, when they lost 3-1 to Sundowns in a Pitso Mosimane masterclass, and in the three editions before the competition took a break after 2019, they bowed out at the semifinal stage.

Two seasons ago, on its return as the Carling Knockout, they went out in the first round to a 1-0 home loss to AmaZulu, the first time they had not advanced to the quarterfinals at least since 2012.

In the last campaign, Chiefs thumped SuperSport United 4-0 away in their opening game but then got a home pasting by Sundowns in the quarter-final.

There have been 11 editions since their last trophy win, and they have made the semis in five of those, to go with three quarterfinal losses and three first-round exits, which, aside from Usuthu, came back-to-back in 2011 and 2012 against Platinum Stars and BidVest Wits, respectively.

Chiefs’ real dominant spell in the competition was between 1997 and 2010, a run of 14 editions of which they won an impressive eight (57 per cent). They also lost the 2002 final at that time to Jomo Cosmos.

The three semifinal losses in a row in their three appearances between 2017 and 2019 came against Wits, most painfully Orlando Pirates and surprisingly Maritzburg United.

Their biggest win in the competition during the PSL era was a 4-0 quarterfinal success against Dynamos in 2004, where goals from Arthur Zwane, Shoes Moshoeu and a David Radebe brace gave them the win, plus last year’s win over SuperSport.

Former coach Zwane, who is now leading AmaZulu, is the joint top scorer in the competition for the club since 1996/97 with five goals. He holds that record alongside Knowledge Musona.

On Friday 3 October, the 2025 edition of the #CarlingKnockout begins 🔜

Here's a look back at how Magesi won the tournament.

Tickets are available at Open Tickets nationwide and online for R60.

🎟️: https://t.co/uph7nsuqBG pic.twitter.com/T36Rd3RhH2

— Official PSL (@OfficialPSL) October 2, 2025

Zwane also got a goal in Chiefs’ darkest day, a 4-1 away loss to Lamontville Golden Arrows in the first round in 2008 when the late Richard Henyekane grabbed a hat-trick in a brilliant win for Abafana Bes’thende.

The team Chiefs have faced in the competition the most in the PSL era is their Soweto rivals Pirates, with seven clashes, of which both teams have won twice, to go with three draws. The AmaKhosi have, however, won all three penalty shoot-outs against The Buccaneers.

They have met a trio of clubs six times – Wits (W3 D1 L2), Platinum Stars (W2 D1 L3) and Sundowns (W1 D4 L1). The first two now no longer part of the PSL.

In all, Chiefs have played 80 games in the League Cup since 1996/97, winning 42, drawing 20 and losing 18. They have scored 118 goals and conceded 78.

KAIZER CHIEFS RECORD IN PSL ERA

Tournament finishes

2024/25: Quarterfinals

2023/24: First Round

2019/20: Semifinals

2018/19: Semifinals

2017/18: Semifinals

2016/17: Quarterfinals

2015/16: Final

2014/15: Quarterfinals

2013/14: Semifinals

2012/13: First Round

2011/12: First Round

2010/11: Winners

2009/10: Winners

2008/09: First Round

2007/08: Winners

2006/07: Quarterfinals

2005/06: Quarterfinals

2004/05: Winners

2003/04: Winners

2002/03: Final

2001/02: Winners

2000/01: First Round

1999/00: First Round

1998/99: Winners

1997/98: Winners

1996/97: Quarterfinals

Mamelodi Sundowns begin their 2025 Carling Knockout campaign on Saturday as they host Marumo Gallants at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville.

Kick-off is at 8pm CAT.

CURRENT FORM

Sundowns claimed first place on the Betway Premiership log with a 4-1 demolition of Richards Bay at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday.

The Brazilians have won six, drawn one, and lost one of their league games so far this season will look to carry the weekend’s momentum into their Carling Knockout opener at the weekend, having lost in the tournament’s final to Magesi FC in last season’s edition.

Masandawana have not lifted a domestic cup trophy since the 2021-22 season and will be hungry to claim the Carling Knockout trophy after missing out on the MTN8 title.

Sitting 11th on the league log, Marumo Gallants have not picked up a win in their last five games.

Most recently, Gallants were handed a 1-0 loss by Siwelele in the Bloemfontein derby on Sunday and will look to bounce back.

Bahlabane Ba Ntwa failed to advance past the first round of last year’s Carling Knockout after a 3-2 loss to Polokwane City and will have to produce a top-class performance to overcome Sundowns on Saturday.

WHAT WAS SAID

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso stated that despite his side’s trophy ambitions, they face a tough task this weekend.

“As always, expectations are on the same level of the demands. Being Mamelodi Sundowns, we have the obligation to fight to win all the competitions. That's the thoughts we have and the team has in mind,” said Cardoso.

“Obviously, we all know that we played Marumo quite recently away. We all know that Marumo Gallants this season still didn't lose to either us, Pirates or Chiefs. So we expect a tough opponent with a very well-studied lesson. But we ourselves obviously are preparing the best way.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Mamelodi Sundowns - Nuno Santos: As one of Masandawana’s new Portuguese signings, Nuno Santos announced his arrival with an assist on his full debut at the weekend. His vision and passing ability make him a serious threat and he will certainly look to create opportunities for his teammates on Saturday.

Marumo Gallants - Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo: Despite having only one goal to his name so far this season, Gallants will look to Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo as their dangerman up front. The seasoned striker will look to pounce on any opportunity given to him and add another to his tally for the season.

HEAD-TO-HEAD (Cup competitions)

Mamelodi Sundowns wins: 3

Marumo Gallants wins: 0

Draws: 0

Orlando Pirates begin their search for a second piece of silverware this season on Saturday as they face Siwelele in their Carling Knockout opener at Orlando Stadium in Soweto.

Kick-off is at 3pm CAT.

CURRENT FORM

Orlando Pirates have found their form and are unbeaten in their last 10 games across all competitions after defeating TS Galaxy 2-0 at the Orlando Stadium on Tuesday.

In last year’s Carling Knockout, the Buccaneers were bounced in the first round by newcomers and eventual champions Magesi 3-2 at the Orlando Stadium. Down by three goals at halftime, the Bucs nearly clawed their way back as Kabelo Dlamini and Evidence Makgopa netted in the dying stages, but it was not enough.

Pirates have not laid hands on the PSL’s knockout tournament silverware since claiming the 2011-12 Telkom Knockout title and will be looking to add the Carling Knockout trophy to the club’s cabinet.

Siwelele managed to collect their second victory of the Betway Premiership season on Sunday after a seven-game streak that included one draw and six losses.

The Bloemfontein-based side defeated Marumo Gallants 1-0 in the city’s new derby at the Dr Rantlai Petrus Stadium in Mangaung, claiming their first win since the first round of fixtures in the league.

Siwelele sit 12th on the log and will hope to keep the momentum rolling in the club’s first Carling Knockout encounter.

WHAT WAS SAID

Following their victory over Marumo Gallants on Sunday, Siwelele head coach Lehlohonolo Seema stated that his team is showing promise but still have a way to go.

“We are not cooking, we are watering. When you don’t play at your best, but you win, and the fans are happy. So for us, that is a big positive,” said Seema.

“If we can fight like this at home, and fight even harder away from home, then we should have a good season. It is a process; this team is still developing, but wins like this go a long way.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Orlando Pirates - Evidence Makgopa: Back in the starting lineup and on the scoresheet, Evidence Makgopa bagged his first league goal of the season from the penalty spot against TS Galaxy on Tuesday. The striker’s size and aerial ability will make him tough for Siwelele to contain.

Siwelele - Tebogo Potsane: Tebogo Potsane opened his account for the 2025-26 season with the winning goal in the Bloemfontein derby against Marumo Gallants on Sunday. The 32-year-old midfielder will be looking to add to his tally on Saturday.

HEAD-TO-HEAD (Cup results)

This will be the first cup meeting between Orlando Pirates and Siwelele FC.

Despite reaching great heights with Magesi and leading the newly-promoted Betway Premiership side to their first ever title, coach Clinton Larsen has resigned with immediate effect.

Following the Carling Cup loss to the All-Star team, it appeared it was the final straw for Larsen who dropped the bombshell on live television.

The #CarlingCup final is Clinton Larsen's last match with Magesi 🔚

Nobody will forget what the pair achieved in 2024 🙌 pic.twitter.com/AlL9n2Qw83

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) December 21, 2024

“Our players looked tired. It has been very difficult and we have played seven away games in a row,” he said on SuperSport TV.

“This is officially my last game with the team. I want to thank the players, the technical team, the supporters and most importantly the chairman for giving me the opportunity to lead the team for the last two years.

“Time will tell how the players will take it. Some are going to be sad and some others are going to be happy. But they are strong, and they will continue to make the club proud.”

“I am giving the team an opportunity to bring fresh energy and a new coach to take the club forward. We won promotion and that stands out for me – and winning a major trophy [Carling Knockout] in only four months in the PSL will remain with me for many years. I wish the club everything of the best going forward,” added Larsen.

As for what took place in the match, Dikwena tsa Meetsi were unable to match the All Star team as they lost 3-0 to them at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The game-changing evolution of the beloved Carling Black Label Cup brought the energy to South African football and ignited a spark that could light up the sport in years to come.

Carling Black Label took the match to another level after a decade by giving champion fans the power to vote for a Carling All-Star team to take on the newly crowned Carling Knockout champions – Stellenbosch FC.

The reinvigorated Carling Black Label Cup, allowed upcoming talent to share the same training camp, change room and then eventually take to the field with some of the country’s top footballers.

The Carling All-Star team starting XI featured five players from the Diski Challenge teams with the other six coming from the first teams of the Premier Soccer League outfits.

Fans were kept at the edge of their seats as the nonstop action-packed match saw the Carling All-Stars team edge over Stellenbosch FC 2-1 at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Saturday.

The big winners on the day were the champion fans – who were also treated to a star-studded musical performance with a line-up that included Makhadzi, Thebe, Paige, Clement Maosa and King Monada.

The Carling All-Star team broke the deadlock three minutes into the game, scoring a scorcher through Kaizer Chiefs sensational starlet Mfundo Vilakazi’ free-kick; then Ashley du Preez sealed things for the Carling All-Star team with a penalty. Stellies found the net late through a well-worked Mervin Boji goal.

The Carling All-Stars team were rewarded a R2 Million winner’s cheque plus an additional R870 000 in Fak’ iGoal Uzobona prize money. The 33-man squad that includes 10 members of the technical staff will each walk away with close to R90K each, and Stellies will receive a R1-million runners up cheque.

Fak’ iGoal Uzobona incentivised teams to score early, while also rewarding one champion fan who correctly guessed the first scoring team and minute of the goal. The Carling Knockout Final and Carling Cup saw the Fak ‘iGoal Uzobona prize money increase ten times over, and counted down from R900 000, dropping by R10 000 each passing minute without a goal.

One lucky fan from those who guessed the minute of the first goal and first scoring team correctly will pocket a staggering R870 000 through the Fak’ iGoal Uzobona innovation. This initiative started during the inaugural Carling Knockout, and in total it will be rewarding close to R2 million to champion fans.

To further reward players for playing their hearts out, the Man of the Match award came with a R100 000 cheque, which also empowered champion fans to vote for their preferred candidate. Thus, making it one of the most rewarding Man of the Match awards on the continent.

Itumeleng Khune received the most votes from South African football loving fans to bag the R100 000 Man of the Match prize, after a stellar performance in goal for the All-Star team.

Over 3.25-million votes were placed by fans throughout the campaign, with over 168 000 coming on the Carling Cup finale to engage with the campaign.

To stay up to date with any further announcements, champion fans should check the official brand website and social media pages:

Stellenbosch’s success in the post-match penalty shootout that decided the outcome of the Carling Knockout was no accident as the club practiced extensively before Saturday’s final against TS Galaxy, said coach Steve Barker.

Stellenbosch triumphed 5-4 on kicks after a 1-1 draw with TS Galaxy at the end of extra time at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium, to pick up their first major piece of silverware.

“After losing a penalty shootout to Kaizer Chiefs in the MTN8 quarter-finals last season and then Sekhukhune in the Nedbank Cup semi-final, we were determined not to ever lose a penalty shootout again,” the Stellenbosch coach explained.

“So we did a lot of homework in terms of our penalties, but we got thrown a bit of a curveball following Fawaaz Basadien’s red card. He was one of our designated key penalty takers. 

“We did our homework on opposition so (goalkeeper) Sage Stephens looked at his bottle to see where he could expect an opposition player to go. We've tried to be scientific about it making our best penalty taker go first and the second best, fourth. 

“But when (Nhlanhla) Mgaga went and missed, I thought ‘here we go again’, all the science behind it is not working,” added Barker.

Mgaga missed the first kick to give Galaxy an immediate advantage and they were ahead in the shootout before their captain Pogisho Sanoka struck the woodwork, allowing Stellenbosch to go level at 4-4 after five kicks each.

Then Lehlohonolo Mojela skyed Galaxy’s sixth effort allowing Darrel Matsheke to win it for the Winelands club.

“We hung in there. We've taken over 260 to 270 penalties over the last while. We've been practising a lot. So I just told the players that we've prepared well, just, you know, go be confident, score your goals, and the rest will take care of itself. So yeah, it's a big relief to finally won a penalty shootout.”

Barker also heaped praise on his players after they lifted the trophy.

“It turned out to be a hard fought gritty cup final between two teams that were desperate to go all the way. So I don't think the football itself was great and the tactics eventually fell out of the window, it was just about digging deep and the desire and the hunger to persevere and to be resilient and just to continue doing what you have to do on the field of play. 

“My players were again unbelievable in the way they just continued to put in such committed performances. I could see and I could feel that they were a little bit heavy today, it's been quite a lot of away games over the last months. The pitch was a bit thick, so it wasn't really conducive for a spectacle in terms of ball playing. It was just about wanting to win the trophy badly,” he said.

Emotional cup hero Darrel Matsheke battled to get out the words as he described how he almost gave up his career just months ago, yet emerged on Saturday as the man who handed Stellenbosch the Carling Knockout by stroking home the decisive kick in the post-match penalty shootout in the final against TS Galaxy.

Matsheke only joined Stellenbosch in October but stepped up to take their sixth kick in the shootout and hand the side a 5-4 victory after the match at the Moses Mabhida Stadium ended in a 1-1 draw.

It was Stellenbosch’s first silverware as a top flight club and came after a tough tussle in the final, eventually decided by a nerve-wracking shootout.

“It means a lot to me, words actually, it's really emotional for me. I was only recently signed by the club. I thought I wasn't going to be in the DStv Premiership this season, so to me and my family it really means a lot and the team as well. They really welcomed me, the hard work we put into training, it’s really amazing to see where I’ve come from. The support I have received means a lot.”

Matsheke had been at Kaizer Chiefs where Gavin Hunt handed him a debut in November 2020 as he moved up from the development ranks, but after that he was not kept in the first team squad but loaned instead to Uthongathi in the National First Division and then to Moroka Swallows last season, before being released.

He was without a club at the start of the season.

“I was supposed to sign with Casric Stars but then I got the call from Stellenbosch,” explained Matsheke before he could go not further with his story as he choked with emotion.

“That call really changed my life I could say, I was like an hour away from signing for Casric.”

He then had to break off from the story before continuing later, explaining how hard it was for him to find a club.

“It was very hard. At some point, I wanted to call it quits. I would like to thank my mom. She really encouraged me not to give up. She said a call from a team would definitely come … and it did.”

Matsheke trained with Stellenbosch on one of their trips to Johannesburg and coach Steve Barker says he took only 10 minutes of watching Matsheke play before telling club officials to sign the 24-year-old.

“I had to work extra hard because in my mind this was like my last opportunity to play football. Stellenbosch has given me the opportunity to play and I didn’t want to let down the coach for trusting me and giving me the opportunity to showcase what I can give,” he added.

Stellenbosch FC have won the inaugural Carling Knockout after they defeated TS Galaxy 5-4 on penalties in the final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday afternoon.

The teams drew 1-1 after extra time, with the Rockets claiming a first-half lead via Lehlogonolo Mojela and Ismael Toure replying in the second for Stellies.

Ironically, Mojela then had the misfortune of missing the key penalty in the first round of ‘sudden death’ kicks, allowing Darrel Matsheke to score the decisive kick for Stellenbosch, who claimed the title and secured a first major trophy in the club’s history.

Stellenbosch looked the more polished and cohesive team in the early stages and should have claimed the lead on 19 minutes.

They put together a sweeping passing move which took them from deep in their own half to TS Galaxy’s penalty area, but Iqraam Rayners saw his low shot well saved by goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari.

Galaxy struggled to create attacking opportunities and were reduced to long-range efforts, most notably ambitious shots from Thato Khiba and Higor Vial which were easily handled by Stellenbosch goalkeeper Sage Stephens.

However, the Rockets began to exert some pressure late in the first half and were rewarded with a fine goal in the 43rd minute: a Galaxy corner kick was only half cleared to the edge of the penalty area and collected by Lehlogonolo Mojela, who shifted to his right foot and struck a powerful effort which flashed into the top corner of the net for 1-0.

ROCKETS' PENALTY CLAIM TURNED DOWN

Mojela’s strike took a slight deflection off a Stellenbosch defender, but looked destined for the back of the net regardless and ensured that the underdogs enjoyed a one-goal advantage at the halftime interval.

The teams traded chances at the start of the second half, with Stellies’ Devin Titus driving an effort straight at the ‘keeper, before Galaxy substitute Samir Norkovic whipped a curling effort just off target.

The Western Cape side opted for a triple change just after the hour mark, introducing Antonio Van Wyk, Andre De Jong and Nhlanhla Mgaga to try and get themselves back into the game.

And they were rewarded, after a spell of pressure, with an equaliser in the 74th minute, as Toure latched onto a loose ball after Galaxy failed to clear their lines and cracked home a powerful left-footed shot for 1-1.

Galaxy almost reclaimed the lead on 82 minutes when Sphiwe Mahlangu found himself one-on-one with the keeper after scrambling through the defence, but Stephens made an outstanding save to keep the scores level.

The Rockets also had a very strong claim for a penalty turned down by the referee in injury time (with Nurkovic clearly tripped up by a defender), before the final whistle was blown to send the match to an extra 30 minutes.

The additional half hour produced few chances at either end, and the only dramatic moment arrived with just a couple of minutes remaining when Stellenbosch were reduced to 10 men, as Fawaaz Basadien received a straight red card – seemingly for some verbals in the direction of Mojela and/or the referee.

Stellenbosch FC (0) (1) 1 (Toure 74’)

TS Galaxy (1) (1) 1 (Mojela 43’)

After extra time, Stellenbosch won 5-4 on penalties

STELLENBOSCH: Stephens, van Rooyen, Moloisane, Toure, Basadien, Titus (Sekgota 99’), Palace (Matsheke 91’), Nduli (Mgaga 62’), Oura (Van Wyk 62’), Rayners (Boji 99’), Adams (De Jong 62’)

GALAXY: Ntwari, Munyai (Nurkovic 46’), M. Mahlangu, Sanoka, Letsoenyo, Sebelebele (Radebe 106’), Khiba (Semache 76’), Vidal (Mbunjana 66’), Mvelase, S, Mahlangu (Mbatha 90’), Mojela

Stellenbosch defender Thabo Moloisane says he is still pinching himself at the turnaround in his career from relegation with Maritzburg United last season to a place in the Carling Knockout final at the weekend

The 24-year-old has been a consistent at centre back for the Winelands club since arriving at the start of the campaign from Maritzburg where he was part of the side relegated from the DStv Premiership at the end of the last season.

“A lot can change in football in a space of months,” said Moloisane, who got his first career goal against TS Galaxy when Stellenbosch won 3-0 at home in the league in October.

“I'll always be grateful for the opportunity being given to me to be brought here. You know, I do pinch myself a lot. After the semifinal, going back to the hotel, I was in tears by myself. And I was just thinking of how everything has changed just from six months ago to where I am now. Just grateful to God, honestly.”

Moloisane has played in all three of Stellenbosch’s matches on the road to Saturday’s final against Galaxy at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

“It's been a pretty tough journey. Can you imagine having to play your games away, from the start to finish of the tournament. But it shows that we have a team that is very committed, a team that is willing to fight for anything that is put in front of us. And I'm just happy that we were able to make history for the team and we're proud to be part of the group that's doing this for the club,” he added.

Stellenbosch have overcome Chippa United, Polokwane City and Richards Bay away from home to book their place in a first-ever final for the club.

“When I arrived at the club I felt that this was a team with a lot of youngsters that people were going to be talking about. I'm glad that what I said is actually happening because I just felt the aura around the room and felt that this is the time for the team to shine. It’s a lot of youngsters that are just working hard, that listen to one another, that just want to do good and just want to make their dreams come true, honestly.”

Moloisane says in their pre-season discussions, the players set two major goals for the season.

“The first on the ‘to do list’ was to reach a cup final. And this is happening now. The second one was to qualify for one of the African club competitions next season. So if we are to achieve all those, all of the plans that we made in the pre-season means it will be a successful season for us,” added Moloisane.

TS Galaxy coach Saed Ramovic feels qualification for this weekend’s Carling Knockout final is just the start of things to come for his club, who will take on Stellenbosch in Durban on Saturday to decide the season’s second piece of silverware.

It is a second final for Galaxy, who were shock Nedbank Cup winner in 2019 when they were still a second-tier side and upset Kaizer Chiefs in the final, also at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

But this is their first chance for silverware since owner Tim Suzaki bought the Highlands Park in 2021.

“We have reached the cup final and it's a beautiful thing,” says Ramovic, whose side overcame Mamelodi Sundowns in the first round, then Sekhukhune United and AmaZulu in the semifinal a fortnight ago.

“It means that this club, and this team, is going in the right direction. We will prepare ourselves because it's a fantastic opportunity for us. And even if we don't get a positive result, we believe in our way, we believe in how we build up the club and the team and we will have a lot of more cup finals, I'm absolutely sure about it.

“Why? Because I believe in our quality, I believe in my staff, I believe in myself that we can make it,” said the coach, who has been at the club for just over two years.

“It’s a process, especially for us as we don't have the kind of financial power like other clubs. Therefore, we have to improve young players, you have to improve the players we get.

“If in the end, if we again sell five players, that is also a great success for us, because it's not easy again to improve players. But it is also good if the best clubs constantly want players from you.”

But he said ideally it would be better is Galaxy could hold onto their best talent.

“We can hopefully be one of the best teams in the league. It is a dream but why should we not dream big?” the coach asked.

TS Galaxy beat AmaZulu FC 3-2 in an entertaining Carling Knockout semifinal encounter which took place at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

The victory saw the Rockets progress to their second major cup final where they will face Stellenbosch FC on 16 December. Galaxy's next game is against Orlando Pirates in a DStv Premiership match on 9 December.

Usuthu, on the other hand, bowed out of the League Cup and they now focus on their league matches with the KwaZulu-Natal giants scheduled to lock horns with champions Mamelodi Sundowns on 6 December.

The Rockets attacked the Usuthu defence with speed down the centre and through the wings from the first whistle. They took an early lead when Bradley Mojela outpaced Ramahlwe Mphahlele before scoring to hand Galaxy a 1-0 lead just two minutes into the game.

FULL-TIME ⏰ | #CarlingKnockout 🏆

Great fighting spirit was shown by the team today, but it was not enough. We're out of the cup.#AmaZuluFC 2⃣ - 3⃣ TS Galaxy#Indlulamithi#HebeUsuthu#UsuthuTogether pic.twitter.com/2PytywA2aE

— AmaZulu FC (@AmaZuluFootball) December 3, 2023

Coach Sead Ramovic's side continued to attack and they doubled their lead in the 26th minute after goalkeeper Veli Mothwa was adjudged to have fouled the pacey Mojela in the box. Higor Vidal stepped up and beat Mothwa to double Galaxy's lead the visitors were 2-0 up at halftime.

Augustine Chidi Kwem, Tshepang Moremi and Taariq Fielies were all introduced by AmaZulu head coach Pablo Franco Martin before the start of the second half. Kwem did make an impact in the 76th minute when he netted from close range to make it 2-1.

Into stoppage time in the second semi-final 🏆

📺 Stream #CarlingKnockout live: https://t.co/TesYUfo62x pic.twitter.com/i9yYwZNV72

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) December 3, 2023

The hosts then pushed for a late equalising goal to at least take the game to extra-time, but they were left vulnerable at the back which saw Galaxy extend their lead in stoppage time. Samir Nurkovic hit the back of the net with his weaker left foot to make it 3-1 to the visitors.

However, the Rockets went to sleep at the back and they conceded when Sere Junior Dion's hard and low shot beat keeper Fiacre Ntwari to make it 3-2. The goal proved to be a mere consolation for AmaZulu as Galaxy held on to claim a 3-2 victory on the day.

AmaZulu (0) 2 (Kwem 76', Dion 90'+4)

Galaxy (2) 3 (Mojela 2', Vidal 26', Nurkovic 90'+3)

AMAZULU: Mothwa, Jooste (Fielies 46'), Mphahlele (Human 46'), Gumede, Hanamub, Mobara, Brooks (Letsoalo 90'+1), Mbanjwa (Moremi 46'), Ekstein (Kwem 46'), Ngema, Dion.

GALAXY: Ntwari, Munyai (Rakwena 57' Mbatha 84'), Sanoka, Mahlangu, Letsoenyo, Mvelase, Khiba, Vidal (Nurkovic 57'), Sebelebele, Mojela (Seema 90'), Mahlangu (Radebe 84').

Stellenbosch finally ended their semifinal hoodoo after beating Richards Bay 3-0 at the King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday afternoon to advance to the Carling Knockout final.

Second-half goals from Devin Titus, Anicet Oura and Antonio Van Wyk sent Kaitano Tembo's side packing as the Maroons cleared the penultimate hurdle of a cup competition at the third time of asking.

Stellies had been knocked out in the semifinals of both the Nedbank Cup and the MTN8 this year and were looking for only their second victory in Durban since 2016.

Both teams were bidding to reach their first-ever cup final, with Richards Bay having dispatched Soweto duo Moroka Swallows and Orlando Pirates in the previous two rounds, while Steve Barker's side eliminated Chippa United and Polokwane City.

The hosts made a bright start and created two early chances as Moses Mthembu sent his shot from range wide of the left post in the sixth minute before Justice Figuareido skied his effort from inside the box two minutes later.

After Titus also failed to hit the target from distance on 14 minutes, Philasande Manqele was called into action midway through the first half to tip Oura's shot over the crossbar for a corner.

Titus was again guilty of not working the goalkeeper on 32 minutes when he fired wide of the right post from inside the 18-yard area and the score remained goalless at the break.

The Natal Rich Boyz went on the attack early in the second half as Langelihle Mhlongo and Lwandile Mabuya both had long-range attempts that missed the target inside the opening three minutes, but instead, the deadlock was broken at the other end on 51 minutes in one swift move.

A long ball from Sage Stephens found Iqraam Rayners and he lobbed the ball to the back post from an acute angle for Titus to tap home from close range after Manqele could only get fingertips to it.

Jayden Adams squandered a golden opportunity to double the visitors' advantage on 58 minutes when he missed the goal from close range from a corner, while Sanele Barns was unable to test Stephens with a direct free-kick that sailed over the bar in the 67th minute.

However, Oura would soon spare Adams' blushes as he converted a corner at close range on 69 minutes to give the Cape Winelands outfit some breathing room.

Richards Bay looked to respond, with Somila Ntsundwana flashing a shot wide of the right post in the 73rd minute and then directing a header over the bar moments later before Mabuya steered a cross narrowly past the near post from an angle on the right in the 84th minute.

But Van Wyk put the cup tie to bed soon afterwards as he curled the ball into the bottom right corner of the net after latching onto a pass from Darrel Matsheke inside the box.

Richards Bay (0) 0

Stellenbosch (0) 3 (Titus 51', Oura 70', Van Wyk 86')

RICHARDS BAY: P. Manqele, L. Mabuya, S. Mthethwa, S. Mcineka, A. Banda, S. Barns, M. Mthembu, B. Komane, L. Mhlongo, T. Gumede, J. Figuareido.

STELLENBOSCH: S. Stephens, D. van Rooyen, T. Moloisane, I. Toure, F. Basadien, J. Adams, S. Nduli, G. Palace, D. Titus, I. Rayners, A. Oura.

AmaZulu FC will battle it out with TS Galaxy in Sunday's Carling Knockout semifinal encounter which is scheduled to take place at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

 

Kick-off is at 3:00 pm CAT.

CURRENT FORM

Usuthu are coming into this cup match wounded after they saw their five-match unbeaten run across all competitions come to an end when they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Stellenbosch FC in a DStv Premiership match on November 25.

AmaZulu are making their first appearance in the League Cup semifinals since 2010 when they lost to eventual winners Kaizer Chiefs in the Telkom Knockout. Usuthu, who won this tournament as the Coca Cola Cup in 1992, are determined to reach the League Cup final for the second time.

Meanwhile, Galaxy have been inconsistent in their last six matches across all competitions, but they bounced back to winning ways in their most recent game as they claimed an emphatic 3-0 win over Polokwane City in a DStv Premiership match on November 26.

The Rockets are making their debut appearance in the League Cup with the club having been established in 2018. However, the Mpumalanga side has won a major trophy as they clinched the 2019 Nedbank Cup and they are now eyeing their second appearance in a major cup final.

TEAM NEWS

AmaZulu are likely to be without defenders Taariq Fielies, Veluyeke Zulu and Thembela Sikhakhane who have been out nursing their respective injuries.

Galaxy, on the other hand, will be missing the services of the injured Bernard Parker and the suspended Mlungisi Mbunjana.

WHAT WAS SAID?

AmaZulu right-back-come-right-winger Wayde Jooste

"We can't look past the semifinals without playing Galaxy. “We can learn from the previous season [where AmaZulu lost 1-0 to Pirates in the final of the MTN8]," Jooste said.

“I don't think our next game against Galaxy will be the same as the previous ones.

"They've been watching us these past few weeks, knowing for a while now they're playing us in the semifinal. They know us and we'll be prepared for them too.”

TS Galaxy striker Samir Nurkovic

"I'm really happy to be back on the field again after such a long time. I'm enjoying every single moment and I'm working hard to get back to where I was before," Nurkovic said.

"It is always a good feeling and an amazing feeling that you are still in the running to win some silverware [Carling Knockout].

"All we need to do is to focus [on the game against AmaZulu] and do what the coach is asking from us and everything else is in God's hands."

AmaZulu: PLAYERS TO WATCH

Augustine Chidi Kwem: The Nigerian marksman recently grabbed an impressive second-half hat-trick in a league win over Golden Arrows and he will be confident of finding the back of the net against his former club, Galaxy.

Junior Sere Dion: The Ivorian frontman was the hero during the Carling Knockout quarterfinals as his hat-trick inspired AmaZulu's win over Arrows. Dion's performance could be key to Usuthu's victory over the Rockets.

TS Galaxy: PLAYERS TO WATCH

Fiacre Ntwari: Rwanda's first-choice goalkeeper was outstanding in the Carling Knockout quarterfinals as Galaxy eliminated Sekhukhune United on penalties. Ntwari will be eager to inspire his side to another cup victory.

Higor Vidal: The Brazilian playmaker has become an influential player for Galaxy having been named Man of the Match after grabbing two assists against Polokwane and he will be eager to replicate the same form in Durban.

Head-to-Head (since 2020/21)

PREVIOUS CUP MEETINGS

N/A – This will be the first cup meeting of AmaZulu and TS Galaxy.

CUP RECORD

N/A – This will be the first cup meeting of AmaZulu and TS Galaxy.

ALL LEAGUE RESULTS

Season Result Scorers

2020/21 Galaxy 1-0 AmaZulu Lekay

2020/21 AmaZulu 2-1 Galaxy Majoro 2; Mbatha (pen)

2021/22 Galaxy 0-1 AmaZulu Memela

2021/22 AmaZulu 0-0 Galaxy

2022/23 Galaxy 0-0 AmaZulu

2022/23 AmaZulu 1-2 Galaxy Dion; Traore 2 (1 pen)

2023/24 AmaZulu 1-0 Galaxy Kwem

OVERALL RECORD (all competitions)

P W D L GF GA

AmaZulu 7 3 2 2 5 4

Galaxy 7 2 2 3 4 5

Stellenbosch will be hoping for third time lucky when they face Richards Bay in the Carling Knockout semifinals at the King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Kick-off is at 3pm CAT (SA, GMT+2)

The Maroons are still searching for their maiden appearance in a cup final after falling at the penultimate hurdle twice over a four-month period this year.

Steve Barker's side lost to Sekhukhune United on penalties in the last four of the Nedbank Cup back in May before being eliminated by Orlando Pirates in the MTN 8 semifinals in September.

Stellies saw off Chippa United (2-1) and Polokwane City (2-0) in the previous two rounds of the League Cup and come into this weekend's clash on the back of a seven-match unbeaten run across all competitions.

Barker admits the climate in Durban has been a challenge for his players, but is hopeful they can overcome the conditions after beating AmaZulu 1-0 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium last weekend to claim their first victory in the city since 2016.

"We don't get this humidity that we experience in this game (against AmaZulu)," he said. "It's always been a difficult place to come and we have to get used to it.

"We are here for another two matches. We are here next week with Richards Bay and if we can pass that difficult hurdle, then we are back here for the finals.

"It's nice to break that duck and it will give us confidence and belief that we can do it again."

The Natal Rich Boyz are also bidding to reach their first-ever final in a cup competition and signalled their intentions when they defeated the Buccaneers on penalties in the quarterfinals.

Kaitano Tembo's side have found the going tough in their second season in the DStv Premiership and are second from bottom after winning just two of their opening 13 matches.

However, a 0-0 draw with Pirates last weekend extended their unbeaten run to two games, giving them a timely morale boost ahead of their biggest fixture in 2023-24.

Tembo is wary of the threat posed by the Cape Winelands outfit, but is hoping that home-ground advantage can help Richards Bay achieve their goal.

"They play with so much speed going forward... Iqraam Rayners, Deano van Rooyen as well as Jayden [Adams]. These are quick and energetic players, so if we can nullify them I think half the job would have been done," he said.

"On one side, we have that advantage of playing in front of our own fans and I think that has played a huge part in our progress.

"At the same time, these are cup games and they are tough. We played Swallows and Pirates - they were tough. Credit should go to the players and fans who've been pushing the team."

A Sere Junior Dion-inspired AmaZulu FC thrashed Golden Arrows 3-0 in Saturday evening's Carling Knockout quarterfinal match at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

The win saw Usuthu join Stellenbosch FC and Richards Bay in the semifinals.

The KwaZulu-Natal giants are scheduled to lock horns with Mamelodi Sundowns in a DStv Premiership match on 8 October.

Arrows, on the other hand, saw their eight-match unbeaten run come to an end as they bow out of the cup competition and they will be keen to return to winning ways when they face Royal AM on 7 October in a league game.

FULL-TIME ⏰ || #CarlingKnockout 🏆

🟢 The City is Ours 🏙️#AmaZuluFC 3⃣ - 0⃣ Arrows#Indlulamithi#HebeUsuthu#UsuthuTogether pic.twitter.com/7d0yQVzPNp

— AmaZulu FC (@AmaZuluFootball) November 4, 2023

Usuthu got a well-deserved lead in the 25th minute after a good move.

Mondli Mbanjwa set up Sere Junior Dion who hit the back of the net to make it 1-0 to AmaZulu with the visitors' defence exposed.

The goal rattled the Abafana Bes'thende's defence and they conceded again four minutes later.

This time, Dion beat goalkeeper Olofemi Kayode from close range to make it 2-0 to a rampant AmaZulu side.

Coach Mabhuti Khenyeza's side was struggling to contain Dion who completed his first-half hat-trick in stoppage time to make it 3-0 to AmaZulu heading into the break after Arrows' poor marking was exposed.

🟢 𝗠𝗔𝗡 𝗢𝗙 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗖𝗛 🏆

Junior Dion is the #CarlingKnockout Man of the Match. He is the hat-trick hero tonight. Congratulations Sigidi 💚#Indlulamithi#HebeUsuthu#UsthuTogether pic.twitter.com/P9cyZxmutL

— AmaZulu FC (@AmaZuluFootball) November 4, 2023

Khenyeza introduced strikers Lungelo Nguse and Ryan Moon prior to the start of the second-half.

Angelo van Rooi was denied by keeper Veli Mothwa in the 54th minute as Arrows looked to pull one back.

Mothwa was a busy man as he produced a decent save to deny Nguse in the 59th minute.

The Bafana Bafana keeper also saved an attempt from Van Rooi in the 67th minute to ensure that AmaZulu emerged as 3-0 winners.

AmaZulu (3) 3 (Dion 11', 29', 45'+10)

Arrows (0) 0

AmaZulu: Mothwa, Sikhakhane, Hanamub, Jooste, Mobara (Hlangabeza 87'), Gumede, Motshwari, Ekstein (Maluleka 74'), Ngema (Human 74'), Mbanjwa (Ndlovu 87'), Dion (Chidi Kwem 68').

Arrows: Kayode, Theron, Cross, Mantshiyane, Shitolo, Dube, Tlolane (Moon 46'), Ndwandwe, Van Rooi, Sibiya (Ncube 83'), Mutizwa (Nguse 46').

Lamontville Golden Arrows have in many ways been the surprise package of this 2023/24 domestic season, making their best ever start to a league campaign and into the quarterfinals of the Carling Knockout.

Abafana Bes’thende are seeking to repeat their trophy success in 2009 when they lifted the MTN8, beating Ajax Cape Town 6-0 in the final, still a South African record score in a cup decider.

They make the short journey to AmaZulu in their quarterfinal on Saturday, who they have beaten in their last three meetings.

Golden Arrows missed put on the top eight on the final day of last season and lost co-coach Vusi Vilakazi early in this campaign, leaving their former striker Mabhuti Khenyeza in sole charge of the team.

Still, they have six wins in nine league games (D2 L1), with their only defeat in 10 games in all competitions this season coming away at Mamelodi Sundowns, certainly no disgrace there.

“I don’t know where we are going with this club, but what is important is we are ambitious as a group,” Khenyeza said.

"As a coach, I have created that because based on my playing days and experience, I always wanted more all the time. I don’t know if it will be the end of the drought now, it can be next year, but at the end of the day we want to end that.

“The only thing I can assure you is we are hungry enough and we want to achieve everything we want. If it doesn’t happen, it won’t be a crisis or stop our mission. As long as you have this thing that you want to win, you will.”

Golden Arrows’ confidence received a boost at the weekend when they defeated Kaizer Chiefs 2-1, but Khenyeza is not getting carried away.

“We have a rule here that we can only celebrate for 48 hours and after that, it’s done. That result against Chiefs, we must forget it. This is a new game, a different challenge with different opposition,” he said.

“What we have done before doesn’t determine what we should do. I even forgot about that win against Chiefs and the focus is on AmaZulu now, that’s what is important.

“Football is not about the past but what you have to do and we try by all means to make sure we are humble all the way.”

Khenyeza scored for Golden Arrows when they beat AmaZulu 2-1 in the 2003 edition of the Carling Knockout competition, and then got one in the quarterfinal as they edged Manning Rangers 4-3 in a seven-goal thriller.

That was one of three semifinal appearances for the club and would end in a 1-0 loss to Silver Stars.

They returned to the Last 4 in 2011 but went down 3-1 to Orlando Pirates, and then again in 2019 when Sundowns beat them 2-1. It is as far as they have got.

That with over Usuthu is also the only time they have met their local rivals in the Carling Knockout.

But overall the teams have met on 37 previous occasions, with Golden Arrows winning 18 of those to go with 12 victories for AmaZulu and seven draws.

Khenyeza scored four goals for Golden Arrows in games against AmaZulu, a number only bettered by current striker Knox Mutizwa, who has five. That is the best success anyone on either side had had.

That defeat to Sundowns in August remains Golden Arrows’ only loss in all competitions since April, a run of 13 games (W8 D4). They have won six of their last seven games (D1).

While Polokwane City rises to the occasion in the DStv Premiership this season, Lehlohonolo Seema and company have now set their sights on doing well in the Carling Knockout Cup when they take on Stellenbosch quarterfinals on Friday night.

 

Kick-off is at 7:30pm (SA, GMT+2)

Rise and Shine go into their game against Stellies on the back of a five-match unbeaten streak in all competitions, which includes a 4-1 win over SuperSport United in the Carling Knockout Cup.

In facing a star-studded Matsatsantsa in the first round, goals from Oswin Appolis, Ndamulelo Maphangule and Hlayisi Chauke were enough for Polokwane City to advance to the quarterfinals of the popular competition.

Polokwane City then recorded a 1-1 draw against Orlando Pirates in the DStv Premiership in their most recent encounter, as coach Lehlohonolo Seema and company continued their positive run of form upon their return to top flight football.

Reflecting on their run in the Carling Knockout Cup, Seema expects a ‘difficult’ fixture when they welcome Stellies to the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Friday.

"It's always nice for the teams that are so-called small to remain in these competitions. Most of the time you find that these competitions become one-sided and they become boring," Seema said.

"These matches [the quarterfinals] are going to be nice but we are not looking at any team and saying 'yeah, this one is going to be easier than others'. All of them [the remaining eight teams] are tough."

"The good thing is we will be playing at home but Stellenbosch are a very difficult team, so we are expecting a very difficult game,'' the Polokwane trainer said.

As for Stellenbosch, the Cape Winelands side go into their next game on the back of a morale boosting 2-1 win over Chippa United in their initial Carling Knockout Cup fixture.

Prior to the game against Chippa, Stellenbosch bagged a 3-0 win over TS Galaxy in the DStv Premiership last month. The result saw Steve Barker and his side record back-to-back wins in the PSL for the first time since August.

After falling short in the semifinals of the Nedbank Cup last season, including a semifinal exit in this year’s edition of the MTN8 tournament, Barker believes that their painful exits are a motivation to go one better in the Carling Knockout Cup.

"That pain that we felt in the last two cup competitions is driving us,” Barker said.

“That is the aim, to go as far as we can and lift the trophy.

“It would be great for us as a team to lift the inaugural Carling Knockout, but before we get there, there are a couple of hurdles left."

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Polokwane City:

Given Mashikinya: The industrious midfielder was a star performer during Rise & Shine’s 1-1 draw against Pirates in their most recent league encounter. Mashikinya is also one of his side’s most experienced campaigners and will no doubt be relied upon to produce the goods against Stellenbosch.

Stellenbosch FC:

Kgaogelo Sekgota: As a direct and skilful runner with the ball at his feet, Sekgota has the ability to cause all sorts of problems in the Polokwane City defence. Also, the Carling Knockout Cup has been a good hunting ground for Sekgota, with the attacker getting his name on the scoresheet during his side’s 2-1 win over Chippa United in the first round.

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has confirmed the dates, venues, and kick-off times for the Carling Knockout quarterfinal fixtures.

THE FIXTURES:

Polokwane City and Stellenbosch FC will kick-off proceedings on Friday night, 03 November 2023, when they lock horns at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. Kick-off is scheduled for 19h30.

On Saturday, 04 November 2023, Moses Mabhida stadium in Durban will host a double-header which will see Richards Bay FC taking on Orlando Pirates at 15h00 followed by the eThekwini Derby between AmaZulu FC and Lamontville Golden Arrows at 19h00.

The last fixture of the Carling Knockout quarterfinal stage will be the much-anticipated clash between Sekhukhune United and TS Galaxy FC at New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday night (20h00).

TICKETING INFORMATION:

Tickets will be sold at TicketPro outlets countrywide. The PSL will advise on ticket availability in due course.

1. Polokwane City v Stellenbosch FC (Old Peter Mokaba Stadium)- R50 per ticket.

2. Double-header (Moses Mabhida Stadium)- R80 for full day access. No pass-out.

3. Sekhukhune United v TS Galaxy FC (New Peter Mokaba Stadium)- R50 per ticket.

Polokwane City produced the surprise of the round after they thrashed SuperSport United 4-1 at the TUT Stadium in the Carling Knockout round of 16 on Sunday evening.

First-half goals from Oswin Appollis and Ndamulelo Maphangule put Lehlohonolo Seema's side in a commanding position at the break before a brace from Hlayisi Chauke wrapped up the win, although they weren't able to keep a clean sheet after Terrence Dzvukamanja pulled one back for Matsatsantsa at the death.

Rise And Shine join TS Galaxy, Orlando Pirates, Golden Arrows, Stellenbosch, AmaZulu, Sekhukhune United and Richards Bay in the quarterfinals, with Gavin Hunt's team now turning their attention back to the CAF Confederation Cup.

The quarter-finals are confirmed ✅

Which fixture excites you most? 🔥#CarlingKnockout pic.twitter.com/nbg0WTcpAS

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 22, 2023

Polokwane rode their luck in the early stages as Etiosa Ighodaro steered the ball inches past the right post from Lyle Lakay's cross in the 13th minute before Bradley Grobler struck the frame of the goal with an effort from the left side of the box on 20 minutes.

However, the opener came at the other end moments later from the visitors' first real attack of the game when Ndumiso Mabena found Appollis inside the 18-yard area and the winger tucked his shot into the bottom left corner of the net.

The Tshwane giants looked to respond, with Grobler forcing Manuel Sapunga to turn his strike behind for a corner on the half-hour mark, while Ighodaro also tested the Equatorial Guinea goalkeeper with a header from Lakay's cross in the 40th minute.

CHAUKE PUTS GAME TO BED

But Rise And Shine made them pay for slack defending in the third minute of added time as Maphangule found space in the right-hand side of the box to beat Ricardo Goss from a corner.

The woodwork came to Polokwane's rescue again seven minutes into the second half when Keenan Bezuidenhout saw his long-range shot cannon off the right post and Terrence Dzvukamanja was just a whisker away from reducing the deficit three minutes later with a strike that flew narrowly wide of the left post.

Things then went from bad to worse for SuperSport after they conceded a third goal on 64 minutes.

Appollis turned provider on this occasion as he picked out Chauke inside the six-yard box and the striker tapped home from close range.

Sapunga had to be alert to keep out Ronald Pfumbidzai's shot at his near post two minutes later before the Limpopo outfit put the cup-tie to bed on 75 minutes as Chauke got his name on the scoresheet again after they hit Matsatsantsa on the counter.

The hosts did manage a consolation goal two minutes from time when Dzvukamanja lashed a shot into the top right corner of the net from range, but Polokwane were deserved winners on the day.

SuperSport United (0) 1 (Dzvukamanja 88')

Polokwane City (2) 4 (Appollis 21', Maphangule 45+3', Chauke 64', 75')

SUPERSPORT UNITED: R. Goss, A. Hamza (O. Bhasera 46'), I. Okon, S. Xulu, G. Lungu (T. Matodzi 75'), P. Nange (G. Moralo 46'), G. Margeman, R. Pfumbidzai, B. Grobler, L. Lakay (K. Bezuidenhout 46'), E. Ighodaro (T. Dzvukamanja 46').

POLOKWANE CITY: M. Sapunga, T. Matuludi, B. Nikani, L. Nkaki, L. Ndlovu, M. Ramabu, G. Mashikinya (M. Kambala 78'), N. Maphangule (L. van Heerden 89'), O. Appollis (S. Goovadia 89'), N. Mabena (N. Raphadu 82'), H. Chauke.

Richards Bay became the latest side to progress to the next round of the Carling Knockout Cup competition, following a hard-fought 2-1 win over Moroka Swallows at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

In ending their three-match winless streak, Yanela Mbuthuma striker’s effort in the 60th minute proved to be the deciding goal in Durban as the Natal Rich Boyz advanced to the next round of the keenly anticipated tournament.

Richards Bay got the game off on a positive note and created several goalscoring opportunities during the first 10 minutes of the match.

The likes of Thulani Gumede and Mbuthuma proved to be the attackers-in-chief for the home team, while Swallows struggled.

The Natal Rich Boyz eventually took the lead in the 15th minute, with Abel Mabaso being on hand to guide home a shot that was taken on the edge of the Swallows 18-yard-area.

Abel Mabaso is sharpest in the box to give Richard's Bay a precious lead ⚽

Can Swallows turn it around in the second half? 💭

Tune in to find out 👇

📺 Stream the #CarlingKnockout live: https://t.co/TesYUfo62x pic.twitter.com/sM3hMxyKzE

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 22, 2023

Soon after going a goal down, Swallows managed to get into the game with a sustained period of ball possession.

The Dube Birds continued to apply pressure as the half-hour mark approached and continuously made way down their left-hand flank.

With Richards Bay playing under pressure, Swallows struggled to make the most of their attacking opportunities.

MBUTHUMBA STRIKE THE DIFFERENCE 

The home side attacked in sporadic moments toward the end of the first half, while the Dube Birds remained in control of the tie overall.

Nevertheless, with no notable goalscoring chances created in the closing stages of the half, the referee called time on the first 45 with Richards holding a slender 1-0 lead.

Swallows started the second half on the front-foot and actively searched for an equaliser after the restart.

Their pressure paid off in the 50th minute as Gabadinho Mhango pulled one back for the travelling outfit.

After a well-worked passing move inside the Richards Bay half, Bongani Sam found Mhango with a low cross into the area before the Malawian international rifled the ball home with a left-footed curler in the 18-yard-area.

Richards Bay replied 10 minutes later as Mbuthuma gave his side the lead against the run of play.

The Natal Rich Boyz’ striker latched onto a well-weighted through ball into the box by Tshepo Mabua before slotting the ball between the legs of goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi.

The hosts grew in confidence after retaking the lead and saw most of the ball during the concluding phases of the game.

While Swallows had chances to level matters during stoppage time, it was Mbuthumba’s strike on the hour that separated the two sides at the King Zwelithini Stadium.

What a game! Richards Bay FC WIN against Moroka Swallows ⚽️ to advance to the quarterfinals of the #CarlingKnockout 🏆

Fak’ uGesi 🔥

Who will they draw for the quarters?

Reply using #CarlingKnockout asizwe! pic.twitter.com/QKtOhcr1ph

— Carling Black Label ᅠᅠᅠᅠ (@blacklabelsa) October 22, 2023

Richards Bay: (1) 2 (Mabasa 15’ Mbuthuma 60’)

Moroka Swallows: (0) 1 (Mhango 50’)

RICHARDS BAY: Manqele, Maphathe, Mthethwa, Dube, Mabua, Mabaso, Barns (Mcineka 94’), Mohomi (Ndlovu 71’), Mhlongo (Mthembu 71’), Gumede, Mbuthuma, Miya (Makateng 94’)

MOROKA SWALLOWS: Akpeyi, Sam, Allan, Mngonyama (Patjie 82’), Phillips, Mtshali, Jali (Wambi 88’), Phalane (Zuma 74’), Makhubela, Mhango, Mabasa (Miya 82’)