Durban City Aims for Upset in Nedbank Cup Quarterfinal Against Marumo Gallants

Durban City are set to challenge expectations this Sunday at the Chatsworth Stadium as they host Marumo Gallants in the Nedbank Cup quarterfinals. The fixture promises to be a thrilling encounter as the second-tier side, currently topping the Motsepe Foundation Championship table, look to extend their impressive cup run.

Durban City, the only remaining championship outfit in the competition, have fought through challenging opponents from the ABC Motsepe League, the Motsepe Foundation Championship (NFD), and the Betway Premiership. Their recent victory over TS Galaxy, clinched in extra time through a decisive Senzo Ndlovu strike, has propelled them into the quarterfinals and heightened expectations of a potential cup upset.

On the other side, Marumo Gallants – under the guidance of new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou – are eager to reverse their fortunes in the Betway Premiership. Ouaddou’s side, who managed a notable victory over Orlando Pirates in his first two games in charge before falling to Stellenbosch FC, currently sit 14th in the league standings. Despite their league struggles, Gallants have demonstrated defensive solidity in the Nedbank Cup, remaining undefeated through two rounds of the competition.

Gallants are keen to build on their previous cup run, having reached the final in 2022 before narrowly losing to Mamelodi Sundowns in extra time. The upcoming match marks the first competitive encounter between these two teams and offers a tantalizing glimpse of a new Betway Premiership matchup—should Gallants maintain their top-flight status and Durban City secure promotion.

As both sides prepare for what promises to be an intense and closely contested battle, the stakes could not be higher. For Durban City, a win would not only cement their reputation as serious contenders but also serve as a testament to their ambition to challenge Premiership standards. For Gallants, the match represents an opportunity to rebound and continue their cup legacy.

Fans can expect a gritty, high-energy contest as these two determined teams battle it out in a quest for glory and a shot at rewriting their narratives.