The Carling Knockout final between Mamelodi Sundowns and Magesi FC has the potential to be one of the biggest upsets of the season. Magesi FC is aiming to pull off a significant surprise against the reigning league champions, which adds an extra layer of drama to the match.
Clinton Larsen and his troops secured a memorable and impressive victory for Magesi FC in the opening round, beating Orlando Pirates 3-2 in their own stadium is no small feat, especially considering the Pirates’ reputation as “cup specialists.” This win not only boosts Magesi’s confidence but also sets the stage for an exciting final against Mamelodi Sundowns.
Magesi’s ability to upset a strong team like the Pirates shows their potential to challenge the odds. It’ll be interesting to see if they can carry that momentum into the final. Do you think they can replicate that performance against Sundowns, or will the champions prove too strong?
Mamelodi Sundowns had an impressive journey to the Carling Knockout final. The Round of 16 Sundowns faced Golden Arrows and delivered a commanding performance, winning 5-0. Key players like Thapelo Morena and Peter Shalulile were instrumental in this victory, showcasing their attacking prowess.
They continued their dominance against Kaizer Chiefs in the quarterfinals, smashing them 4-0. This match highlighted their tactical superiority and ability to control the game, with standout performances from their midfield and defence.
In a tightly contested match against Marumo Gallants, Sundowns secured their spot in the final with a 2-1 victory. Their resilience and experience shone through, allowing them to manage the game effectively.
Here is a look at three matchups that could decide the outcome of the result as Sundowns and Magesi eye the second trophy on offer thus far into the 2024/25 campaign:
Teboho Mokoena vs Samuel Darpoh
Teboho Mokoena has been an integral part of the Mamelodi Sundowns set-up, especially with his ability to link defence into attack through quick transitions. The 27-year-old also has an eye for goal and has proven it for club and country with his long-range shooting.
Mokoena’s absence at the start of the season was not welcomed by many fans of the Yellow Nation and questions were raised about whether he and Manqoba Mngqithi had a fallout, but that was quickly put behind them and the mercurial midfielder was slotted back into his rightful position in the starting line-up for the Brazilians.
Despite the quality of Mokoena, he will be under pressure facing Ghana international Samuel Darpoh in a midfield battle. The defensive midfielder is one of the first names on the team sheet for Magesi as his tough and robust approach to his game has been essential for Clinton Larsen thus far.
The 26-year-old is making his return to South Africa’s top-flight division after falling out of favour at AmaZulu in 2021. He also had stints with Summerfield Dynamo and Venda before joining Magesi FC.
Mothobi Mvala vs Wonderboy Makhubu
In Cup football, form somehow takes the back seat as goals are more important. That said, Mvala will know this as he and his team have been favourites to win in finals before but have failed to cross the finish line.
As they turn their attention to Dikwena, the physical and bulky defender will know that they will have to leave everything on the field in order to minimize Magesi of creating scoring opportunities and to protect their most prized asset Ronwen Williams.
Wonderboy Makhubu has been instrumental for Magesi and will present a tough challenge for Mvala and the defence for the Brazilians on the day. His speed and eye for goals will keep the defence of Sundowns busy as he looks to add to his two goals for the season.
Makhubu will play a pivotal role for Magesi as the centre-forward has more top-flight experience than most of his teammates. Magesi will need to find a way to edge Sundowns in this final to establish themselves in top-flight, which will require Magesi to move as a unit and be on the same page with each other.
Lucas Ribeiro vs Limbikani Mzava
Lucas Ribeiro has been the standout performer for Sundowns as no player has had more contributions than the Brazilian at this stage of the season. He has registered seven goals and four assists across the opening 12 games.
Since the start of the Carling Knockout, the Brazilian has been at the forefront of Sundowns’ attack registering one goal and two assists. If there is anybody who can trouble Magesi captain Elvis Chipezeze following his Man of the Match awards across all three games in the competition – it must be Ribeiro.
Elvis Chipezeze will hope his defence shows up and puts in a winning performance on the day against a Sundowns attack that is capable of finishing off any team in the league and abroad. Limbikani Mzava will need to use his experience and lead by example to ensure that Chipezeze is protected.
Mzava has won this competition before with Larson in 2012 against the very same team. This is a full-circle moment for Larsen and his commanding defender which will give them that extra boost of confidence they will need to overcome this tough challenge ahead of them.
Written by Marc Strydom.