Marumo Gallants secured their place in the Carling Knockout Cup final after a thrilling 2-2 draw with Golden Arrows was decided by a tense 4-2 penalty shootout victory at the King Zwelithini Stadium yesterday.
The victory marks a huge success for Coach Alexandre Lafitte, guiding Gallants to their first cup final under his tenure and continuing the club’s strong domestic cup pedigree.
A Cautious Start, Explosive Middle
The semi-final clash saw both teams seeking redemption following recent league defeats, leading to a cagey opening half. Golden Arrows dominated possession but failed to translate it into significant opportunities.
Gallants, conversely, looked dangerous from set-pieces, notably forcing Arrows keeper Xolani Ngcobo into a crucial save from a late free-kick from eventual Man of the Match Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo.
The game exploded into action shortly after the half-time break, with four goals scored in quick succession:
53′ – Arrows Lead: Isaac Cisse capitalized on a loose ball following a corner kick, reacting quickest to put the hosts ahead.
Gallants Immediate Response: Gallants hit back almost instantly when Ndlondlo fired a powerful, low shot into the bottom corner to level the scores.
Gallants Take the Lead: Minutes later, Sekela Sithole stunned the stadium with an audacious, long-range chip that soared over the stranded Ngcobo, giving the visitors the advantage.
70′ – Arrows Equalise: Arrows pushed hard for a response and were rewarded when Nqobeko Dlamini brilliantly combined with Sede Dion before curling home a superb equalizer, making the score 2-2.
Arubi’s Heroics and the Decisive Spot-kicks
The hosts pressed intensely for a winner towards the end of regulation and through extra time. That being said, veteran Gallants goalkeeper Washington Arubi once again proved to be the difference, pulling off vital saves to deny Arrows’ attempts from Karelse and Sabelo Sithole, ensuring the match went to penalties.
In the ensuing shootout, Arubi cemented his hero status by saving Thabo Matlaba’s effort. Ibrahim Bance then stepped up to convert the decisive spot-kick, sealing the 4-2 victory for Gallants.
The result continues Marumo Gallants’ remarkable cup run, marking their second domestic final appearance in three seasons. Meanwhile, Golden Arrows’ long wait for a major cup final—a drought stretching back to 2009—sadly continues.
Gallants will now face Soweto giants Orlando Pirates in the highly anticipated Carling Knockout Final on 6 December 2025 at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.