Nedbank Cup Drama: Postponements, Penalties, and Late Winners

The much-anticipated Nedbank Cup quarter-final between Mamelodi Sundowns and Sekhukhune United has been postponed after the PSL discovered via social media that Lucas Moripe Stadium was double-booked. South Africa’s U-17 women’s team is set to play Nigeria in a FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifier at the same venue on the same day.

With safety concerns at the forefront, the PSL had no option but to reschedule the fixture, leaving Sundowns with a welcome break amid their fixture congestion and giving Sekhukhune’s interim coaches, Kaitano Tembo and Paulos Masehe, additional preparation time.

The league has faced criticism for fixture planning issues, with calls for improved scheduling to prevent such conflicts in the future.

Orlando Pirates Edge SuperSport in Penalty Shootout Thriller

Orlando Pirates advanced to the Nedbank Cup semi-finals after a dramatic penalty shootout victory (4-2) over SuperSport United, following a 2-2 draw in regulation time at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium.

Match Summary:

• SuperSport United Goals: Terrence Dzvukamanja (43’), Gape Moralo (90+2’)
• Orlando Pirates Goals: Mbekezeli Mbokazi (29’), Evidence Makgopa (45+1’)
• Penalty Shootout: Pirates won 4-2

The Buccaneers now await their next challenge as they aim to defend their title for a third consecutive season.

Kaizer Chiefs Triumph in Late-Game Drama

Kaizer Chiefs secured their place in the semi-finals with a thrilling 3-1 victory over Stellenbosch FC at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

• Chiefs Goals: Inacio Miguel (penalty), Pule Mmodi (stoppage time), Mfundo Vilakazi (final minutes)
• Stellenbosch Goal: Andre de Jong (87’)

The match saw high drama as Chiefs’ goalkeeper Brandon Petersen was sent off in the 77th minute, allowing Stellies to equalize. However, Amakhosi fought back, with Mmodi’s winner initially disallowed before a lengthy VAR review overturned the decision, igniting celebrations.

What’s Next?

• Magesi FC faces Marumo Gallants on Sunday for a semifinal spot.
• A new date for Mamelodi Sundowns vs. Sekhukhune United will be announced soon.

Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, two Soweto powerhouses, have already guaranteed their places in the final four of the Nedbank Cup, raising excitement for the remaining matches.