Mamelodi Sundowns have set up a Carling Knockout Cup final date against Magesi FC following their 2-0 win over Marumo Gallants in the semi-final at the Dr Molemela Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Lucas Ribeiro’s goal in the 53rd minute from a spot kick and a last-minute goal from Neo Maema secured the victory for Masandawana, taking them to the finals.
Below are the talking points from this clash.
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS PLAYERS RULED OUT OF TODAY’S GAME
Bafana Ba Style were missing eight key players because of injuries ahead of today’s match against Bahlabane ba Ntwa.
The eight players are Keagan Johannes, Lesiba Nku, Themba Zwane, Tashreeq Matthews, Siyabonga Mabena, Rivaldo Coetzee, Thembinkosi Lorch, and Rushine De Reuck.
PITCH CONDITIONS AT DR MOLEMELA STADIUM
The Dr Molemela Stadium was drenched by a heavy downpour, leaving the pitch in less than ideal conditions for a football match.
Fortunately, the rain subsided before the game commenced, but the field remained uneven and challenging for both teams. Despite the less-than-perfect playing surface, the players persevered, battling through the difficult conditions until the final whistle.
MARUMO GALLANTS NOT CLINICAL ENOUGH
Gallants lacked the precision needed with their clear-cut opportunities. Nonetheless, Sundowns appeared to be the most impressive team on the day.
Manqoba Mngqithi’s side used their experience to make sure that they booked their ticket to the final from the two goals they scored in the second stanza.
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS TO MEET MAGESI FC IN THE FINAL
With the Brazilians having advanced to the finals on a 1-0 win, the side will now face the tournament’s debutants, Magesi FC.
Magesi cruised to the final after defeating Richards Bay FC 1-0 at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The Limpopo club is the second newly-promoted club to reach the League Cup final, according to Opta Jabu. They played in the Rothmans/Coke/TKO/Carling] after Silver Stars in 2003.
The Carling Knockout Cup final between Magesi and Sundowns will be played at the Toyota Stadium on Saturday, 23 November 2024. The Limpopo side will be the home team.
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