WeeklySA_AdminPENALTY KICKS:Nerve-wrecking yet entertaining quarterfinal round had to be settled on spot kicks following a 1-1 draw by the end of extra time
By Sports Reporter
Played in an excitable atmosphere in a pulsating Lucas Moripe Stadium, Mamelodi Sundowns managed to come out victorious in what was a rollercoaster of a Nedbank Cup quarterfinal clash against the University of Pretoria FC on Friday evening.
To determine who would be advancing to the semifinals, the nerve-wrecking yet entertaining quarterfinal round had to be settled on spot kicks, following a 1-1 draw by the end of extra time. It is through those penalty kicks that the Chloorkop-based side came out victorious to advance to the next round.
It was the hosts who took the first opportunity to break the deadlock but could not capitalise as it went wide. However, the home side produced more shots and dominated possession. From set, it was evident that the game was going to have highs and lows and the first high came from the Brazilians when they broke the deadlock through Lucas Ribeiro’s left-footed shot on the 8th minute. The well executed goal was produced from Themba Zwane’s backheel pass to find Neo Maema but was cleared away. Fortunately, Ribeiro’s pressing saw him regain the ball and shot it straight to the net to put his side in the lead.
A few more chances to threaten a very tight Tuks rearguard were produced, as they found their rhythm and pace, but nothing came out of those chances.
Of course, the students tried to gain control of the game but Coach Rulani’s charges resisted as they made a few important clearances. The situation, however, quickly became complicated when AmaTuks levelled matters on the 33rd minute.
Before the first half was concluded, Teboho Mokoena unleashed a set piece shot that sent the Tuks goalkeeper flying to smack the ball away to deny Masandawana a second goal.
The second stanza produced no goals from the two Pretoria-based sides, even with the many chances that were created. As the Brazilians created plenty opportunities, the Tuks defence squad were aame from Bathusi Aubaas’ long range shot which viciously swerved in the air but got cleared by the goalkeeper. Thembinkosi Lorch’s last gasp attempt was the third opportunity which was so close to winning it for Coach Rulani’s men.
Ultimately, the winner was decided through penalties where Bafana Ba Style won 4-3, all thanks to Marcelo Allende, Lucas Ribeiro, Mothobi Mvala and Peter Shlaulile who shot the decider. Masandawana have now advanced to the last four and will soon learn who their semifinal opponent is.
