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EZEKIEL PHALANA
The excitement is building as the four remaining contenders — Orlando Pirates, Marumo Gallants, Richards Bay, and Lamontville Golden Arrows — prepare for the Carling Knockout Cup semi-finals this weekend in KwaZulu-Natal. At a spirited press conference held yesterday, the coaches shared their insights, ambitions, and tactical outlooks ahead of what promises to be an enthralling weekend of football.
Lamontville Golden Arrows: “Cup Football Has Its Own Logic” — Manqoba Mngqithi
Golden Arrows coach Manqoba Mngqithi reminded the media that knockout football often defies expectations.
“Reputation counts for little in cup football,” said Mngqithi. “Every match has its own story. What matters is our preparation, focus, and belief.”
The seasoned tactician, who previously led teams deep into cup competitions, expressed his hunger for success with Arrows:
“I’ve collected silver before — this time, I want to turn that into gold.”
Arrows face Marumo Gallants on Sunday at the King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi, and Mngqithi’s message to his players was clear: humility, hard work, and courage.
Richards Bay FC: “We Believe We Can Go All the Way” — Ronnie Gabriel
Richards Bay head coach Ronnie Gabriel exuded confidence as his side gears up to face Orlando Pirates on Saturday at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
“We believe there’s an opportunity for us to win the Carling Knockout,” he said. “We’ve been in this position before, but now it’s about taking the next step — reaching the final and giving our supporters something special.”
Gabriel also noted that the spirit his players have shown in cup competition should carry into their league performances.
“This kind of hunger shouldn’t only exist in the cup. We want to bring the same energy every week.”
Marumo Gallants: “Full Credit to the Players” — Alexandre Lafitte
Following his team’s emphatic 4–0 victory in the quarter-final, Marumo Gallants coach Alexandre Lafitte praised his players’ determination and professionalism.
“The players deserve all the credit,” he said. “They executed our plan perfectly and showed great discipline. Now, it’s about maintaining that focus as we face another strong opponent.”
Lafitte added that his squad is motivated and fully aware of what is at stake:
“We are proud to be in the semi-finals, but we’re not satisfied yet. The journey continues.”
Orlando Pirates: “There Are No Substitutes — Only Impact Players” — Abdeslam Ouaddou
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou highlighted the depth and unity within his squad, praising the players who have made decisive contributions off the bench.
“Everybody is important. There are no substitutes — only impact players,” said Ouaddou. “The energy from every player has helped us get here, and we’ll need the same commitment going into the semi-final.”
With the Buccaneers chasing another domestic title, Ouaddou stressed the need to balance composure and ambition:
“We respect our opponents, but we focus on our football — our identity, our rhythm, and our desire to win.”
Weekend Fixtures
Saturday, 8 November 2025: Richards Bay FC vs Orlando Pirates — Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban
Sunday, 9 November 2025: Lamontville Golden Arrows vs Marumo Gallants — King Zwelithini Stadium, Umlazi
Both matches kick off at 15:00 CAT, with the winners set to meet in the Carling Knockout Cup Final later this month.
About the Carling Knockout Cup
The Carling Knockout Cup continues to celebrate the passion and unpredictability of South African football, offering fans across the nation a chance to witness new heroes, bold tactics, and unforgettable moments.