Mamelodi Sundowns beat Stellenbosch FC 2-1 in the semi-final of the Nedbank Cup at a packed Danie Craven Stadium on Sunday afternoon to set up a final date against rivals Orlando Pirates.
Khuliso Mudau and Thembinkosi Lorch scored the goals for Sundowns, while Genino Palace netted the only goal for Stellies.
Sundowns were still without key midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who is suffering from a hamstring injury sustained most recently.
Peter Shalulile came close as early as the seventh minute to open the scoring after a decent cross from Tashreeq Matthews. However, the Namibian international failed to connect with the ball and was quickly disrupted by Stellies keeper Oscarine Masuluke.
But a few moments later, the visitors, Sundowns, opened the scoring through defender Khuliso, easily beating Masuluke from the near post.
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS THROUGH TO THE NEDBANK CUP FINAL
The Stellenbosch players shouted for a penalty in the 14th minute, but the ball clearly hit Themba Zwane’s chest, as shown by the television replays.
At the half-hour mark, there was a rare incident when experienced assistant referee Zakhele Siwela was forced to leave the field after suffering from a hamstring injury. He was replaced by fourth official Christopher Kistoor.
Iqraam Rayners thought he had found an equaliser for the home side immediately when action resumed. But he was adjusted to be in an offside position.
The teams went into the half-time break with the DStv Premiership champions, Sundowns leading 1-0.
A few minutes into the second-half, Rayners nearly scored after an error from Bathusi Aubaas, who lost the ball just outside the 18-area box. But the in-form striker saw his shot narrowly miss the target.
Substitute Thembinkosi Lorch added the second goal for Sundowns in the 75th minute through a header. Sundowns were awarded a penalty a few minutes later after Mudau was fouled inside the 18-area box by Qobolwakhe Sibande.
But striker Peter Shalulile missed a glorious opportunity to add a third for Sundowns after his penalty went over the bar.
Stellies immediately capitalised and scored one back to make it 2-1. Sundowns held on to win, booking a spot in the final, which will be played at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday, 1 June.
RELATED STORY: Dlamini hits brace as Pirates reach Nedbank final after 3-1 victory over Chippa
