Durban City booked their place in the Nedbank Cup final with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Casric Stars at Chatsworth Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The result marks a significant milestone, as Durban City become the first KwaZulu-Natal side to reach the final since the 2017/18 season.
The hosts started brightly, creating an early chance inside the opening minute before taking the lead in the 6th minute through an own goal by Mlilo Siphamandla. They maintained pressure in the first half, with Mthombeni forced into a save, while Jean Lubumba came close but missed a one-on-one opportunity.
Casric Stars showed resilience, finishing the first half strongly and creating chances of their own, but they were unable to find the equaliser.
The second half saw a more tactical battle, with both sides making changes, including the introduction of Fezile Gcaba. Casric Stars pushed for a way back into the match, but their best chance fell to Chauke in the 79th minute, and he failed to hit the target.
Durban City remained composed in the closing stages, defending resolutely to secure a historic victory.
Speaking after the match, Durban City coach Pitso Dladla emphasised the bigger picture behind the achievement:
“We want to be remembered.”
Dladla’s words reflect more than just reaching the final ; they highlight a team determined to leave a lasting mark on the competition and write their name into Nedbank Cup history, not just as finalists, but as a side that carried the pride of KwaZulu-Natal on a national stage.
Casric Stars coach Mthombeni remained positive despite the result, saying:
“I am very happy about the way they played, even though they scored an own goal.”
Durban City now move one step closer to turning that ambition into reality as they prepare for the final, they now await the outcome of the second semi-final between TS Galaxy and Milford FC, set to take place on Sunday at 3pm, to determine their opponent.
Image by : Lustano Photography