Kaizer Chiefs went through to the final of the Vodacom Challenge Cup when they beat TP Mazembe from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) 9-8 on penalties at Mmabatho Stadium on Sunday.
The two teams, who met in last year’s final, which Chiefs won 3-2 on penalties again, were level at 0-0 after regulation time.
Chiefs are the proud owners of the Kudu Horn, having won the Vodacom Challenge Cup three times.
Long-serving Chiefs midfielder Thabo Mooki scored the vital penalty after both teams had been level at 8-8.
That was after Mazembe goalkeeper Ilunga Muamba had fired a shot over the top and pressure was on Mooki to seal the win with the 17th spot kick.
The midfield maestro, who replaced Junior Khanye in the 73rd minute, stepped over and sent Muamba to the wrong direction, much to the jubilation of his club’s vociferous fans.
Chiefs, with home ground advantage, almost took the lead in the 16th minute but Tinashe Nengomashe’s left-footer shaved the near post with Muamba a beaten man.
Nengomashe is the same player who scooped both the Castle Premiership Player of 2003 and Player’s Player of 2003. Meanwhile, Mazembe were unlucky when their goal was disallowed in the 82nd minute.
Chiefs tried unsuccessfully to dish out quality football, prevented by the vigorous play of the visitors who tackled ferociously.
Khanye, David Radebe, Patrick Mabedi and Nengomashe were the victims of the rough tackles of the Mazembe players, who were shown four yellow cards.
The second semifinal pits Orlando Pirates against ASV Club, also of the DRC. The final will be staged at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg on Saturday. — Sapa