Lafitte confident of beating Pirates in Carling Cup final

Marumo Gallants head coach, Alexandre Lafitte, is confident of his side can lift the Carling Knockout Cup, despite having to go up against perennial winners Orlando Pirates in the final at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane next month.

Bahlabane Ba Ntwa booked their place in the final after edging past Lamontville Golden Arrows 4-2 on penalties, following a stalemate in extra time at Sunday’s semi-final at the King Zwelithini Stadium in Durban.

South Africa’s latest cup kings, Pirates secured their spot following a 1-0 victory over Richards Bay FC on Saturday at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Gallants have already beaten Pirates in the Betway Premiership this season, edging them 2-1 in Bloemfontein.

Lafitte says the victory gives his team confidence and enough time to study their opponents, ensuring they’ll be fully prepared for the final on 6 December.

“I think I have a team, the players will be ready to focus on the same objective,” said Lafitte.

“And I’m confident for the Orlando Pirates match but it’s still gonna take long time [before we play the match].”

The 28 year old Frenchman has also emphasised the importance of his side doing well in the league.

“I think before that, we will play three league games. We must take at least a minimum of five points. We’re not playing most games at home and being away is difficult for the club.

And thereafter, it will be a final. When you play the final, you want to win. But we will have time to prepare, analyse Pirates and their players. I know the team Pirates, I know the players, but it’s still gonna be long time. But it’s still gonna take long time. So, we have time to prepare for it,” he added.

The final is set ✅@OrlandoPirates and @MarumoGallants will face off in the #CarlingKnockout final on Saturday, 6 December at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium.

Kick-off time is to be confirmed. pic.twitter.com/T7uH04ydaQ

— Official PSL (@OfficialPSL) November 9, 2025