Stellenbosch FC's Devin Titus celebrates after scoring a goal in the Nedbank Cup quarter-final against SuperSport United at Denny Craven Stadium on April 13, 2024 (Grant Pitcher/Garo Images)
- Stellenbosch FC achieved a resounding 4-0 victory over SuperSport United in the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals.
- Stellenbosch booked their place in the semi-finals with goals from Anicet Oula, Devin Titus, Andre de Jong and Ikram Reiners.
- Stellenbosch extended their unbeaten run in all competitions to 21 matches and showed great form heading into the next round.
- For more news about the Nedbank Cup, visit: News24's soccer page.
Stellenbosch FC defeated SuperSport United 4-0 in the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals on Saturday at the sunny and windy Daniel Craven Stadium.
Anicet Oura, Devin Titus, Andre de Jong and Ikram Reiners found the back of the net to secure victory and a place in the semi-finals.
With this victory, they extended their unbeaten record in all competitions to 21 games.
SuperSport started the year well but suffered their third defeat as Gavin Hunt's side struggled in the conditions in the Western Cape.
The region is on the road to recovery after recent storms wreaked havoc on much of its infrastructure, but remains a challenge for visiting teams.
The first half started just when Steve Barker and his troops would have been desperate for it, playing with the wind supporting their attacking approach.
Meanwhile, Hunt on the opposing bench blushed even more with anger as the sun shone above Dani Craven Arena, glinting his grace.
In the blink of an eye by the seven-minute mark, Stellenbosch, known for their speed and clinical counter-attacks, once again displayed their trademark efficiency and found the back of the net.
In this instance, Ivorian forward Oura was in the right place at the right time. He latched onto a sharp cross from Fawaz Basadian and broke into the SuperSport penalty area. Confronting goalkeeper Ricardo Goss, he fired a shot, which was initially saved by Goss.
However, his attempt to collect the ball was thwarted and Rayners had a chance, but his attempt was thwarted by former Bafana Bafana captain Thulani Hlatshwayo.
Undaunted, Oura pounced on the rebound and displayed his keen instincts to slot the ball into the back of the net, giving the home team an early lead.
It took nearly 20 minutes for Hunt's attack to get its first shot on goal via forward Terrence Ducamangia, which was effortlessly saved by Oskarin Masuluk.
Barker's charge raised the bar for a second goal, potentially much to the chagrin of the Zimbabweans and the rest of the SuperSport squad.
Fortunately for SuperSport, Goss first safely parried a Titus attack and then thwarted Andre de Jong's onslaught with an impressive last-minute save, allowing the goalkeeper's talent to shine. It was to show off.
Just before the halftime whistle, Rayners, aided by the wind, fired a powerful 40-yard shot that rattled the uprights, but narrowly missed the shot that was considered a likely candidate for the goal of the tournament.
Despite Hunt being quick to make three changes, the shocking second goal came less than 90 seconds into the second half. Zukamanja, Abdulrazak Hamza and Onismol Basela were replaced by Lucky Mthethwa, Siviwe Majdigidi and young superstar talent Sandor Campbell.
At this time, Titus and Rayners choreographed a beautiful one-two pass, showing their synergy on the field.
Titus, 22, showed remarkable confidence as he coolly slotted the ball into the goal from a sharp angle, scoring his 11th goal in his 31st appearance in all competitions.
Things got even worse for Hunt's visiting team after that.
Three minutes before Nhlanhla Mgaga was substituted with an abduction injury, Jayden Adams sliced in De Jong's superbly chipped ball.
The New Zealander, who had previously had a chance saved by Goss, calmly slotted the ball past Bafana Bafana's substitute goalkeeper and ensured he got his name on the scoresheet.
What's more, Rayners ensured his name was on the scoresheet as well, putting the cherry on top of the cake neatly.
The goal continued Stellenbosch's perfect run in cup competitions, ensuring they reached the semi-finals for the third time this season and aiming to win the Carling Knockout Cup.
The Steries join Mamelodi Sundowns, who defeated the University of Pretoria on penalties on Friday, while Orlando Pirates face AmaZulu later on Saturday night.
TS Galaxy will also aim to qualify for the semi-finals against Chippa United on Sunday, with a draw to be held after the match.
