Mamelodi Sundowns’ Carling Knockout journey ended in heartbreak as Marumo Gallants pulled off a stunning penalty shootout upset at Lucas Moripe Stadium.
In one of the biggest upsets of the season so far, Gallants edged the Betway Premiership champions 7-6 on penalties after a goalless 120 minutes.
It’s a painful result for Sundowns, especially after last season’s disappointment when they lost the Carling final 2-1 to Magesi FC.
MARUMO GALLANTS SHOCK MAMELODI SUNDOWNS IN THE CARLING KNOCKOUT
The result leaves Kabo Yellow tasting cup heartbreak for the second time in a row, after they were dumped out of the MTN8 semifinals by Orlando Pirates just last month.
Sundowns were left frustrated as they dominated possession and created chance after chance, but failed to break down Gallants’ stubborn backline.
Bahlabane Ba Ntwa’s Washington Arubi turned out to be the hero of the night. The veteran goalkeeper saved three spot kicks before showing nerves of steel to smash home the winning penalty in sudden death.
For Gallants, it was an unforgettable night and a defensive masterclass inspired by their 28-year-old French coach Alexandre Lafitte.
How the teams lined up:
Sundowns: Williams, Mudau, Cupido, Khoza, Modiba, Aubaas, Allende, Santos, Sales, Matthews, Rayners.
Subs: Onyango, Lebusa, Morena, Basadien, Mokoena, Mkhulise, Reisinho, Mokoena, Shalulile.
Gallants: Arubi, Doudy, Sikhosana, Eroine, Chabatsane, Nhlapo, Sithole, Ndlondlo, Bance, Mabuza, Motloung.
Subs: Mlambo, Manaka, Msendami, Clifford, Luthuli, Mphambaniso, Sithole, Ncube.
Sundowns’ focus now shifts to continental football. After the FIFA break, they’ll take on Nigerian champions Remo Stars in the CAF Champions League preliminary second round on 17 October.