Sekhukhune United players celebrate after winning the Nedbank Cup semi final match against Stellenbosch FC last Sunday. (Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images)
Brandon Truter believes his prayers were answered when he guided Sekhukhune United past Stellenbosch FC and into the Nedbank Cup final.
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Sekhukhune won the semi-final game at Danie Craven Stadium in the Cape winelands 4-3 on penalties. This was after the game finished goalless.
It was surprising how this game finished without a goal considering the many scoring chances created on the night.
Sekhukhune will now meet Orlando Pirates in the final on 27 May at Loftus Versfeld Stadium and Truter was thankful to God and his players.
“I am just grateful for what God is doing with this team. We faced so many struggles with flue, fatigue and all those things when we were preparing for this game.
“We did a lot of praying and God came through at the right time. It was a lot of effort from the players as well,” said Truter after the game.
It will be Sekhukhune’s first ever final since their inception a few years ago and Truter has written his name into the club’s history books.
Playing in the final against Pirates could also qualify Babina Noko for the Caf Confederation Cup.
This however can happen only if Pirates finish second or third in the DStv Premiership, and automatically get a spot in the Caf competitions.
Winner of the Nedbank Cup, and the team who finishes third in the league represent South Africa in the Caf Confederation Cup.
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The league champions and second place finishers play in the more recognised and elite Caf Champions League.
“Coming here to Stellenbosch and creating the chances… But for me, it is into the final and it means a lot to the club as well.
“It is the first cup final but also guarantees us a spot in Caf competitions next season.
“That is another challenge as well which we have not prepared for but then God made it happen… He qualifies the unqualified.
“It is another challenge to look forward to. But for now, we have Pirates next week and we have not secured our top eight spot.
“So, that is our focus for now,” added Truter.
Sekhukhune will meet Pirates at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
They will be looking for points to secure a top eight finish while Pirates are looking to finish in second spot and book themselves into the Caf Champions League next season.
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