Elias Mokwana was the star of the show as Sekhukhune United outshone Chippa United 2-1 to advance to the Nedbank Cup semifinals at Nelson Mandela Stadium yesterday.
Netting what is the fastest goal in the history of the Nedbank Cup, Mokwana put the visitors ahead less than 50 seconds into the game. Thanks to his quick feet, Mokwana beat Chippa left-back Azola Ntshabo to get into the box before his weakly struck shot from close range broke the deadlock.
Chippa’s woes deepened when Khanyisile Mayo was stretched off in the sixth minute after a nasty challenge by Edwin Gyimah.
Ronaldo Maarman replaced the injured younger son of former Kaizer Chiefs striker-turned defender Patrick Mayo. Scoring his 10th goal of the season in all competitions, Chilli Boys’ talisman Godspower Ighodaro restored parity, rising highest to nod home Siphelele Luthuli’s corner kick in the 17th minute.
After levelling matters, Chippa took their foot off the pedal and looked content to absorb the pressure by sitting back, waiting to use counter attacks. The experience of former Bafana Bafana midfielder Kamohelo Mokotjo came in handy for Sekhukhune in the engine room. His calmness helped the visitors to control the tempo of the game. Mokotjo also won almost each and every battle against Siphesihle Mkhize in the middle of the park.
Benefiting from Mokwana’s delightful cross, Ighodaro’s Nigerian countryman, Chibuike Ohizu, scored what would eventually seal the deal for Babina Noko just two minutes before the end of the first stanza. Sekhukhune boxed cleverly in the second half by winding the clock down through keeping possession.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.