In a remarkable display of determination and skill, Magesi FC capped their maiden topflight season with an historic 2–1 victory over Mamelodi Sundowns in the final of the Carling Knockout Cup on Saturday. The Limpopo side showcased their resilience by executing a spirited comeback at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein, leaving fans in ecstasy as they celebrated a moment that will be etched in South African football history.
The match began under the shadow of Sundowns’ lofty reputation and dominant form throughout the season. With the sun shining brightly, Magesi faced a relentless tide of attacks from the well-established Sundowns, who wasted no time in asserting their dominance. The early exchanges saw goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze emerge as a defensive hero, thwarting efforts from Lucas Ribeiro, Teboho Mokoena, and Peter Shalulile with a series of stunning saves that kept Magesi in contention.
However, the pressure eventually paid off for Sundowns in the 36th minute, as Ribeiro’s incisive play set up Iqraam Rayners. Calmly slotting the ball home, Rayners gave Sundowns a deserved lead, sending a wave of apprehension through the Magesi ranks.
But any thoughts of a Sundowns rout were swiftly dashed in the second half. Magesi emerged from the break invigorated, and within just two minutes, they levelled the score. Tshepo Kakora found the net with a powerful header, expertly powered in from an Edmore Chirambadare corner. The goal ignited hopes among Magesi supporters, who could sense that their team was hungry to seize the moment.
With the match finely balanced, the tension escalated as Sundowns pressed forward in search of a winner. Yet Chipezeze was determined to keep his team in the game, making vital interventions, including an astounding stop to deny Mokoena from distance in the 68th minute. As the clock ticked down, it appeared that Sundowns may still salvage their title.
But the script had a different ending in store. In a nail-biting finale, Magesi executed their plan with surgical precision. In the 87th minute, once again it was Chirambadare’s expertise at set-pieces that proved decisive—his corner kick found the head of Delano Abrahams, who powered in the dramatic winner just three minutes shy of full-time.
The final whistle set off wild celebrations as Magesi FC lifted the Carling Knockout Cup, a reward for their tenacity and unyielding spirit. Chipezeze’s brilliance between the posts and Chirambadare’s creative flair not only defined the match but also solidified Magesi’s place in the annals of South African football as they achieved the remarkable feat of winning silverware in their debut season.