Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates will not face each other in the Nedbank Cup semi-finals after the draw held at Chatsworth Stadium on Sunday evening kept them apart. Both teams secured their place in the last four on the same day, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the tournament.
Orlando Pirates to Face Marumo Gallants
Defending champions Orlando Pirates have been drawn against Marumo Gallants, who, like the Buccaneers, progressed to the semi-finals via penalties. Pirates edged past SuperSport United in a tense shootout, while Gallants booked their spot by defeating Durban City 4-1 on penalties after a goalless draw in extra time.
This will be a crucial match for Gallants, who are battling to maintain their Premier Soccer League status. Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who recently took charge of the team, sees the Nedbank Cup as an opportunity to build momentum for their relegation fight. Gallants previously shocked Pirates with a 2-0 victory in a league match, but cup competitions often bring out a different side of the Buccaneers.
Kiazer Chiefs to Face Mamelodi Sundowns or Sekhukhune
Kaizer Chiefs, who overcame Stellenbosch FC in a dramatic encounter, will play the winner of the postponed Mamelodi Sundowns vs. Sekhukhune United clash. The original fixture was called off due to a scheduling conflict at Lucas Moripe Stadium, where South Africa’s Under-17 women’s team was hosting Nigeria for a World Cup qualifier. The Premier Soccer League is yet to confirm a new date for this match.
Chiefs, eager to end a near-decade-long trophy drought, will have to be at their best regardless of their semi-final opponent. Sundowns remain the dominant force in South African football, while Sekhukhune United have shown their capability of pulling off surprises.
Gallants’ Journey and City’s Promotion Push
Marumo Gallants’ success in the cup has provided a positive distraction from their league struggles. They currently sit just two points above the relegation zone but have a game in hand over 15th-placed Magesi FC. Ouaddou’s side hopes that a strong cup run can inspire their survival bid.
For Durban City, the Nedbank Cup journey has been a valuable experience, but their main focus remains on securing promotion to the DStv Premiership. Currently leading the Motsepe Foundation Championship by six points with 10 games remaining, they are on course for automatic promotion in their debut season under their new identity.
Who Will Reign Supreme in the Nedbank Cup Semi-Finals?
The Nedbank Cup semi-finals promise thrilling encounters, with Chiefs and Pirates both determined to go all the way. Pirates will be wary of Gallants after their previous league defeat, while Chiefs must prepare for either Sundowns or Sekhukhune in what is set to be a high-stakes fixture. The road to the final is heating up, and fans can expect more drama as the tournament reaches its climax.
Related article: BREAKING NEWS: Mamelodi Sundowns’ Nedbank Cup Quarterfinal Postponed!
