NEDBANK CUP WRAP: SuperSport United, 10-man Chippa United advance to quarters

In a thrilling Nedbank Cup last 16 encounter, SuperSport United secured their spot in the quarter-finals with a commanding 3-1 victory over Richards Bay at King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium.

SuperSport, making four changes from their previous outing, saw goalkeeper Ricardo Goss back in action alongside Onismor Bhasera, Terrence Dzvukamanja, and Gape Moralo. On the other side, Richards Bay maintained their lineup, with only one change, Somila Ntsundwana stepping in.

The match kicked off with an early spectacle as Shandre Campbell swiftly put SuperSport in the lead with a sensational free-kick within the first six minutes. Despite Gavin Hunt’s charges creating more chances, their finishing lacked precision.

Richards Bay earned a penalty just before halftime but failed to capitalize as Justice Figuareido’s attempt was denied by a brilliant save from Goss. However, their joy was short-lived as Campbell struck again on the brink of halftime, doubling SuperSport’s lead.

After the break, Richards Bay altered their approach with four substitutions, aiming for a comeback. Their efforts were almost rewarded when Sibusiso Mthethwa’s header hit the post.

SuperSport, content with their lead, adopted a defensive stance, inviting pressure from Richards Bay. Mthethwa managed to pull one back for the hosts, but their hopes were dashed as Gamphani Lungu sealed the victory for SuperSport with a clinical finish on the counter-attack to make it 3-1.

Meanwhile, in a thrilling encounter at Buffalo City Stadium, Chippa United secured their spot in the quarter-finals of the Nedbank Cup after a hard-fought battle against FC Ravens, ultimately prevailing 2-1 in extra time.

From the outset, Chippa United demonstrated respect for their opponents, fielding a strong lineup featuring key players such as Stanley Nwabali, Craig Martin, Bienvenu Eva Nga, Kamohelo Mahlatsi, and rising star Sinoxolo Kwayiba.

However, it was FC Ravens who struck first blood, with Samkelo Ngcungama finding the net just five minutes into the game, putting the third-tier team ahead 1-0 and setting the tone for a challenging match.

Despite relentless efforts from Chippa United to level the score, FC Ravens maintained their lead throughout the first half, heading into halftime with confidence.

The second half saw Chippa United intensify their efforts, determined to mount a comeback after their recent loss to Mamelodi Sundowns. However, their task became more difficult when Elmo Kambindu received a red card for a second bookable offense, leaving his team with ten men.

Undeterred, Chippa United pressed on, making a crucial substitution as Baraka Majogoro entered the fray. Their persistence paid off in the dying minutes of regulation time, as Thabo Makhele converted Malebogo Modise’s assist to equalize the score at 1-1, forcing the match into extra time.

In the additional period, Chippa United seized control, with Andile Mbeyane capitalizing on Ayabulela Mqokozo’s assist to put his team ahead 2-1 in the 108th minute.

FC Ravens, unable to mount a significant response, succumbed to defeat, bowing out of the competition. Chippa United’s hard-earned victory showcased their resilience and determination to advance in the Nedbank Cup.