On Sunday, Gallants will face Durban City FC in the quarter-finals of the Nedbank Cup at the Chatsworth Stadium.

Earlier in the season, Gallants secured a 1-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium in Rocklands during the quarter-finals of the Carling Knockout Cup. However, in the semi-finals, they were beaten 2-0 by a star-studded Mamelodi Sundowns at the Slaughterhouse.

Durban City, a National First Division side, are well-positioned for promotion to the Premier Soccer League next season.

After two tough league encounters against Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC over the past week, Gallants are feeling confident heading into this crucial clash.

Midfielder Mpho Chabatsane told OFM Sport that the team is fully focused on getting the job done.

“This game is going to be very different from the ones we’ve played before – it’s a must-win. In the cup competitions we’ve played so far, we’ve always managed to reach the semi-finals.

“So, this one is important for us, especially after our matches against Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch in the league. Those games gave us confidence during the week.

Daniel Msendami. Photo: Morgan Piek

“They were great preparation, so I think we are more than ready for this game.”

Chabatsane, who celebrated his birthday on Thursday, added that Durban City will be looking to prove a point as a lower-division team and will want to show they can compete with PSL clubs.

“They’re from a different division, so we have to be prepared. They have a lot to prove, but for us, it’s not about proving anything – we just have to fight our own fight.” Sunday’s quarter-final at the Chatsworth Stadium kicks off at 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg