Marumo Gallants beat Golden Arrows on penalties to reach Carling Knockout final

The semi-final ended 2-2 after extra time, with veteran goalkeeper Washington Arubi once again the hero in a tense shootout.

Both sides approached the clash looking to bounce back from recent league defeats, and the opening half reflected their caution. Arrows had more possession but failed to create clear chances, while Gallants threatened from set-pieces, forcing Xolani Ngcobo into a sharp save from Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo's free-kick late in the half.

The game came to life soon after the interval. Isaac Cisse gave Arrows the lead in the 53rd minute, reacting quickest to a loose ball from a corner. Gallants hit back almost immediately as Ndlondlo fired low into the bottom corner, and within minutes, Sekela Sithole put the visitors ahead with an audacious chip from long range that left Ngcobo stranded.

Arrows responded with intent and were rewarded in the 70th minute when Nqobeko Dlamini combined with Sede Dion before curling home a fine equaliser to make it 2â-2. The hosts pressed for a winner late on, but Arubi kept Gallants in the game with key saves to deny Karelse and Sabelo Sithole in extra time.

In the penalty shootout, Gallants held their nerve. Arubi saved Thabo Matlaba's effort, and Ibrahim Bance converted the decisive spot-kick to seal the 4â-2 victory and send Gallants into their first cup final under coach Alexandre Lafitte.

The result continues Gallants' impressive cup run, marking their second domestic final in three seasons, while Arrows' wait for a first major final since 2009 goes on. Gallants will now meet Orlando Pirates in the Carling Knockout Final on 6 December 2025, with the venue yet to be confirmed.

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