Carling Knockout: Gallants set up Final reunion with ex-coach Ouaddou’s Pirates

Marumo Gallants booked their place in the Carling Knockout final after a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout win over Golden Arrows at King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday afternoon, a result that sets up a highly anticipated final against Orlando Pirates, now coached by former Gallants head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

Golden Arrows started brightly, dominating possession in the opening stages, but failed to seriously test the Gallants defence. Gallants, meanwhile, looked threatening from set-pieces, forcing goalkeeper Xolani Ngcobo into action multiple times.

Despite chances at both ends, the first half ended goalless. The second half, however, delivered fireworks.

Isaac Cisse opened the scoring for Arrows in the 54th minute, but Gallants responded instantly. Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo equalised just two minutes later, and Daniel Msendami fired Gallants ahead in the 58th minute. Arrows hit back in the 70th minute through Nqobeko Dlamini’s classy finish, sending the match into extra time.

Arrows dominated the additional 30 minutes, but Washington Arubi stood tall, producing a string of saves to keep Gallants in the contest. His heroics continued into the penalty shootout, where he saved efforts from Brandon Theron and Thabo Matlaba. Ibrahim Bance then slotted home the decisive kick to seal the win.

Gallants vs Pirates — A Reunion with Ouaddou

The victory sets up a compelling final against Orlando Pirates, who are being led in the competition by Abdeslam Ouaddou, the very coach who guided Gallants to safety and a cup semi-final earlier this year. The storyline adds extra spice to what promises to be a tactical and emotional battle for the trophy.

When And Where Is Carling Knockout Final?

Orlando Pirates and Marumo Gallants will battle it out in the Carling Knockout Final on Saturday, 6 December at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.
Kick-off time will be confirmed by the PSL in due course.