Nedbank Cup: Keet the hero as Durban City edge Chippa; Vasco cruise at Athlone

The Nedbank Cup Round of 32 delivered a night of contrasting drama on Friday. While Vasco da Gama enjoyed a comfortable afternoon at Athlone, Durban City required a penalty shootout masterclass from Darren Keet under the floodlights to keep their “Cup of Dreams” alive.

Vasco da Gama 4-1 Luthuli Brigades In Nedbank Cup

Vasco da Gama secured a commanding 4-1 victory over Luthuli Brigades at Athlone Stadium, overcoming an early scare to dominate the proceedings. The Brigades drew first blood just six minutes into the match when Mkhabela Ntshuxeko fired home from the centre of the box, but the lead was short-lived as TJ Diedericks levelled matters for the hosts in the 11th minute.

After going into the break tied at 1-1, Vasco took complete control in the second half. Diedericks completed his brace in the 57th minute following an assist from Chade Roman, setting the stage for a late onslaught.

Tauriq Dien put the game out of reach in the 76th minute by converting a clinical penalty, before super-sub Michel Phigeland added the finishing touch in the 83rd minute. Despite a flurry of late substitutions, Luthuli Brigades could not find a way back, leaving Vasco to celebrate a comprehensive win and progression.

Durban City win 3-2 on penalties To Book Nedbank Cup Last 16 Spot

As night fell over Chatsworth Stadium, a grueling encounter between Durban City and Chippa United ended in a stalemate after 120 minutes of tension, forcing a dramatic penalty shootout under the lights. Veteran goalkeeper Darren Keet emerged as the undisputed hero of the night, producing three massive saves to send the Chilli Boys packing.

The match was a tactical battle of attrition, with clear-cut chances at a premium. Durban City’s Saziso Magawana, Letsie Koapeng and Ronaldo Maarman were denied by Dumisani Msibi, while Chippa struggled to penetrate a compact defense led by Fezile Gcaba.

As the game moved to spot-kicks, Keet took center stage in the night air, saving efforts from Malebogo Modise, Boy Madingwane, and the final decisive penalty from Harold Majadibodu. Although Durban City missed three of their own—including two hitting the woodwork—successful strikes from Sphiwe Mahlangu, Brooklyn Poggenpoel, and Liam De Kock were enough to seal a 3-2 shootout victory and a spot in the Last 16.

The Nedbank Cup Round of 16 encounters will continue over the weekened.