The magic of the Nedbank Cup is alive – and it’s wearing NFD colours

COMMENT

Regarded as the country’s premier knockout competition, the Nedbank Cup has lived up to expectations this season with thrilling ‘David vs Goliath’ clashes. More history could be written as the competition enters its final stages.

Motsepe Foundation Championship sides Casric Stars and Milford FC are close to a fairytale ending in the competition, as they are in the semi-finals where they’ll face Betway Premiership clubs Durban City and TS Galaxy this weekend. Granted, City and Galaxy have the advantage heading into the two clashes, but they will underestimate their National First Division opponents at their own peril.

Stars haven’t been in the competition to make up the numbers. Their run has included some giant-killing performances, having caused major upsets by beating Orlando Pirates and AmaZulu FC en route to the semi-finals.

The Bucs Mthombeni-coached team have been running like a well-oiled machine in the second-tier division and are on the brink of promotion to the elite league. They are fourth on the log with 38 points, two behind log leaders Milford FC.

Mthombeni is delighted with his team's run of form across all competitions, but he prioritises doing well in the league. He believes they have enough quality and depth to compete among the big boys. Should they fall short in their promotion push, Mthombeni hopes his players will attract interest from top-flight clubs.

However, Mthombeni and his team could hit two birds with one stone – earning promotion and winning the Nedbank Cup. Lifting the trophy would be a defining moment for both Milford and Casric, and it is within reach.

Galaxy etched their name in the history books a few years ago, becoming the first and only second-tier side to win the Ke Yona Cup. It was a huge moment for the competition and for South African football.

Granted, the early elimination of 14 top-flight teams in the competition was a blow for the sponsors in terms of return on investment, as they will be hoping for a strong turnout in the final. However, this is what the competition is about – realising dreams.

That is why many in the football fraternity are dreaming of an all-NFD final, where one side would be guaranteed the title, a R7 million cheque, and a place in the CAF Confederation Cup next season.

Milford have been doing just that since buying their way into the second-tier division three seasons ago. They retained their status in the last two seasons and are now on the brink of promotion, currently leading the table.

Coach Dr Xanti Pupuma, a gynaecologist by profession, has ensured the team continues to break barriers. Having eliminated his childhood club Kaizer Chiefs in the first round, Milford could achieve the improbable by finishing the season as double champions.

Given that both Mthombeni and Pupuma are club owners, they are already seeing returns on their investment, having each secured R1 million for reaching the semi-finals – a significant amount for teams competing in the lower divisions.