Durban City have secured their place in the final of the Nedbank Cup after a narrow 1-0 victory over Casric Stars in a tense semi-final encounter at Chatsworth Stadium on Saturday.
The decisive moment came just six minutes into the match, when Casric defender Sphamandla Mlilo inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, handing Durban City an early advantage they would ultimately defend until the final whistle.
Durban City entered the contest as favourites, facing a Casric Stars side that had already gained attention for their impressive run in the tournament. The visitors, who compete in the Motsepe League, had been seen as underdogs but were hoping to extend their giant-killing streak.
Despite the early setback, Casric responded positively and created opportunities to level the score. Their best chance of the first half fell to Decide Chauke, whose glancing header drifted narrowly wide of the post, leaving Durban City goalkeeper Darren Keet untroubled.
After the break, Durban City looked to assert greater control of the game, increasing their attacking intensity. Jean Lubumba came close to doubling their lead early in the second half, but his effort sailed over the crossbar.
Casric, however, continued to threaten and nearly found themselves further behind in unfortunate circumstances. Defender Nhlanhla Ntuli almost scored a second own goal when his mistimed clearance struck the top of the crossbar, narrowly avoiding compounding his side’s difficulties.
The remainder of the match saw Durban City focus on maintaining their slender lead, while Casric pressed forward in search of an equaliser. Despite their determination and continued effort, the visitors were unable to break through Durban City’s defence.
In the end, Durban City did just enough to hold on to their advantage and confirm their place in the final. Their disciplined performance ensured that the early own goal remained the difference between the two sides.
Durban City will now look ahead to the final, where they are set to face either TS Galaxy or Milford, depending on the outcome of the other semi-final.
For Casric Stars, the defeat marks the end of a notable cup run, having exceeded expectations and challenged higher-ranked opposition throughout the competition.
