Cape Town City FC began the new season on the right note, beating Sekhukhune United 1-0 in the MTN8 quarter-final tie at New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Darwin Gonzalez’s goal in the 87th minute from a spot kick was enough to earn CT City FC a win away from home.
Below are the talking points from this showpiece.
MACDONALD MAKHUBEDU TAKES CHARGE OF SEKHUKHUNE UNITED
In the wake of Peter Hyballa’s impending departure, coach MacDonald Makhubedu took charge of Sekhukhune United as they faced Cape Town City in the MTN8 quarter-final showdown.
Sekhukhune announced Hyballa’s appointment as the club’s new head coach in June this year. However, things have taken a different turn.
PETER MOKABA STADIUM PITCH CONDITION NOT PLEASING
Peter Mokaba Stadium’s pitch condition was not as good as usual. Last week, TS Galaxy mentor Sead Ramovic launched a scathing attack on the pitch conditions in the SA elite league, describing them as a “cow-breaking” disgrace.
The German was left fuming following his side’s 3-1 loss to Stellenbosch FC in the MTN8 quarter-finals at Danie Craven Stadium last Sunday.
As the new season starts, Peter Mokaba Stadium is going to be one of the busiest stadiums in the country, as it is expected to host over 40 matches this campaign.
CAPE TOWN CITY BECOMES THE EIGHTH SIDE TO PLAY 20 GAMES IN TOP 8
According to Opta Jabu statistics, Cape Town City was playing its 20th game in the Top 8 since 2017.
In those 20 matches, the Citizens won nine, drew five, and lost six. The Cape club became the eighth side in PSL history to play 20 games in the competition [BP/SAA/MTN8].
MONARE AND MAKGALWA DEBUT FOR SEKHUKHUNE
Thabang Monare and Keletso Makgalwa made their debuts for Babina Noko against the Citizens as they started the match. Monare joined the Limpopo club after his contract with Orlando Pirates was not renewed. Meanwhile, Makgalwa signed for Sekhukhune from Motsepe Foundation Championship side Upington City FC.
CAPE TOWN CITY BECOMES THE THIRD TEAM TO QUALIFY FOR MTN8 SEMIS
CT City became the third team to book the MTN8 semis spot following their win against Sekhukhune this afternoon. The Citizens joins Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC in the semi-finals. The last spot awaits Mamelodi Sundowns and Polokwane City FC. The two clubs are set to lock horns on Sunday, 11 August 2024 at 15:00.
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