South African football fans can mark their calendars as the Premier Soccer League has officially announced the highly anticipated dates and venues for the Nedbank Cup semi-finals.
The stage is set for a thrilling weekend of action as the final four teams battle it out for a coveted place in the prestigious Nedbank Cup final.
The PSL has confirmed that both Nedbank Cup semi-final clashes will take place on Sunday, 13 April 2025.
The first semi-final will see defending champions Orlando Pirates lock horns with 2021 champions Marumo Gallants at the iconic Orlando Stadium in Soweto. Kick-off for this encounter is scheduled for 15h00.
Indeed, fans of the Mighty Buccaneers can expect a fierce contest as Jose Riviero and his army aims to continue their dominance in the competition, while Gallants will be eager to recapture past glory.
Immediately following the first match, the action shifts to the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria for a mouthwatering showdown between giants Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs.
This highly anticipated clash is set to kick off at 18h00. With both teams boasting passionate fan bases and a hunger for silverware, this encounter promises to be a captivating spectacle.
The PSL has also provided details regarding ticket sales. Football supporters can purchase their tickets for the semi-finals at Ticketpro outlets nationwide for R80 each. Further updates regarding ticket availability will be communicated by the PSL in due course.
Pirates Aim for Historic Three-Peat in Nedbank Cup
Orlando Pirates enter the semi-finals with their sights firmly set on making PSL history. The Buccaneers are determined to secure an unprecedented third consecutive Nedbank Cup title.
This ambition adds an extra layer of motivation for the Soweto giants, particularly as it could serve as a memorable parting gift for their departing head coach, Jose Riveiro, whose exit at the end of the current season was confirmed earlier this week.
Read: Orlando Pirates announce Jose Riveiro exit
Pirates secured their place in the semi-finals after a hard-fought quarter-final against SuperSport United, which saw them emerge victorious in a dramatic 5-4 penalty shootout following a 2-2 draw after extra time.
Adding to their busy schedule, Pirates are also strong contenders in the Betway Premiership title race alongside Sundowns and hold a slender 1-0 advantage in their CAF Champions League quarter-final tie against MC Alger, with the crucial second leg at Orlando Stadium scheduled just four days before their Nedbank Cup clash against Gallants.
Sundowns Eye Double Delight Amidst Continental Challenge
Mamelodi Sundowns booked their spot in the Nedbank Cup semi-finals with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Sekhukhune United. Like their semi-final counterparts, Orlando Pirates, the Brazilians are also juggling domestic ambitions with continental commitments.
Sundowns are also in the thick of the Premiership title race and face a crucial CAF Champions League quarter-final second leg away to Esperance in Tunis on Tuesday, holding a 1-0 lead from the first leg. Newly appointed Sundowns boss Miguel Cardoso will be aiming to navigate this demanding schedule and keep Sundowns on track for both domestic and continental glory.
Chiefs Desperate to End Trophy Drought
For Kaizer Chiefs, the Nedbank Cup represents a significant opportunity to end a frustrating trophy drought that stretches back nearly a decade. The Amakhosi will be highly motivated to overcome their formidable opponents, Mamelodi Sundowns, and secure a place in the final.
Adding to their challenges, Chiefs are also battling to secure a top-eight finish in the Premiership this season, a feat they narrowly missed out on in the previous campaign. The Nedbank Cup therefore carries immense importance for the Glamour Boys and their loyal supporters.