Magesi FC edge Richards Bay to reach Carling Knockout final as Orlando Pirates slayers await either Mamelodi Sundowns or Marumo Gallants

In a gripping Carling Knockout semi-final at King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday afternoon, Magesi FC defeated Richards Bay FC to secure a historic place in the final, marking them as only the second promoted side in 21 years to reach a major cup final.

The first real chance came in the 23rd minute when Tlakusani Mthethwa tested Magesi’s Zimbabwean keeper, Elvis Chipezeze, with a powerful left-footed shot, but Chipezeze reacted swiftly to keep it out.

Yanela Mbuthuma’s header followed, yet it lacked the force needed to beat the in-form shot-stopper.

Magesi took the lead in the 27th minute after a costly error from Tshepo Mabua allowed Tshepo Mashigo to fire a well-placed shot past the Richards Bay defense.

Deolin Mekoa nearly doubled Magesi’s lead minutes later but, with only the keeper to beat, sent his shot wide.

With the opening goal on the board, the game intensified as both teams pushed for more.

Justice Figuareido came agonizingly close, hitting the post, and Chipezeze remained active, making six saves in the first half alone—a testament to his recent string of Man of the Match performances.

Richards Bay’s Tlakusani Mthethwa received a booking before half-time and later saw red in the 84th minute after picking up a second yellow card.

The second half saw Richards Bay press forward, with Wonderboy Makhubu launching relentless attacks on Magesi's defense.

Chipezeze was called into action again, denying Mbuthuma and pulling off a brilliant save to stop Keagan Allen's thundering header.

Figuareido and Somila Ntsundwana continued to trouble Clinton Larsen's side, but Richards Bay couldn’t find the breakthrough.

As the final whistle blew, Magesi celebrated a well-earned 1-0 victory, setting up a showdown in the Carling Knockout final against the winner of tomorrow’s Marumo Gallants and Mamelodi Sundowns clash at Toyota Stadium.

Elvis Chipezeze, the skilled Zimbabwean goalkeeper, has once again demonstrated why he's considered one of the best in the league, earning the title of MVP for his match-winning performance with Magesi.

His series of spectacular saves throughout the game proved crucial in keeping his side in contention as they take the first spot in the final.

Richards Bay faced heartbreak once again in the Carling Knockout, bowing out in the semifinals after a narrow home defeat to Magesi.

Despite controlling large portions of the game and creating numerous scoring opportunities, Richards Bay struggled to convert their chances into goals.

This defeat marks the second consecutive season they have exited the competition in the last four, leaving both players and fans frustrated by their repeated inability to reach the final.

Next up for Richards Bay is an away game against Kaizer Chiefs in a PSL match following the international break.

Meanwhile, Magesi will be preparing for the Carling Knockout final at Toyota Stadium, where they will face the winner of tomorrow’s second semifinal between Gallants and Sundowns.