To reach the 2024 Carling Knockout Final, Magesi FC has dug deep across all departments of the team.
The last hurdle is against Mamelodi Sundowns at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, Free State, on Saturday, 23 November 2024, at 18:00.
It goes without saying that it’s a mammoth challenge. Magesi FC, however, has impressed during the tournament, and for the observers, the final could go either way.
Credit goes to Dikwena Tša Meetse’s management, the technical team, and playing personnel for putting the team on the map.
The wins against Orlando Pirates (3-2), TS Galaxy (1-0), and Richards Bay (1-0) ensured the passage to the final. Clinton Larsen, the astute tactician, has played a pivotal role alongside his assistants, Jacky Ledwaba and Papi Zothwane.
The job isn’t done, however, with the final in mind, and from the goalkeeping department to the forwards, anyone is capable of helping the side put up a good fight against Sundowns and bring home the trophy, together with the R6.6-million cheque, which is the first prize in the tournament.
Who would be key for Magesi FC? From the round of 16 to the semi-finals, the results suggest it would probably come down to team effort, as has been the case specifically in this tournament.
The goalkeeping department
In goal, Elvis Chipezeze will be under the spotlight in the final, having been Man of the Match three times in a row in this tournament. His exploits, including two clean sheets, have certainly been the talk of town, especially the fact that it has netted him R300 000 in prize money. The 34-year-old has been long in the game to understand that you are as good as your last match and the final is next.
The defence
Tshepo Mashigo, John Mokone, Lehlogonolo Mokone, Limbikani Mzava, Delano Abrahams—they all certainly deserve credit. Notably, in the Last 16, the defence was resolute. Pirates’ two goals only came in the 86th and 89th minutes, which shows Magesi FC’s defence was unbreakable for the better part of the match. Abrahams was on the scoresheet too for our three goals. In the quarter-finals, Lehlogonolo Mokone’s goal was enough to see us through against TS Galaxy, and in the semi-finals, Mashigo’s goal was the difference. In the final against Sundowns, the Blue Nation would hope the defence remains just as good.
The midfield
In the center of the park, the likes of Samuel Darpoh and Deolin Mekoa have worked their socks off. The experience of Mekoa has come to the fore, and for a player who sticks to the basics, he’s aided Magesi’s cause in reaching the final. The big question would be: can he deliver against his former side? If his past performances are anything to go by, Mekoa, alongside Darpoh, would play a crucial role.
The forwards
Larsen firmly believes it’s only a matter of time before Wonderboy Makhubu receives a Bafana Bafana call-up, given the latter’s workrate. The 27-year-old continues to impress in the elite division, and with all eyes on the final, Makhubu could leave an inedible mark. Credit also goes to the likes of Tshepo Kakora and Edmore Chirambadare, who have contributed immensely from the wings. From across the field, Magesi FC appears to be a side who fight gallantly for the badge. The final is an opportunity to do the same and bring the trophy home.
SOURCED FROM THE CLUB’S WEBSITE.
