Stellenbosch FC’s Sinoxolo Kwayiba single-handedly orchestrated Durban City’s downfall as he inspired the Cape Winelands outfit to a 2-0 victory in their Carling Knockout last-16 clash at Chatsworth Stadium on Wednesday night.
The victory secured Stellenbosch’s place in the quarter-finals, ending Durban City’s hopes of progressing further in a competition that has already delivered plenty of drama and exciting football.
The encounter looked destined for a goalless draw for much of the evening, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut scoring opportunities in a match that lacked the attacking spark expected from a knockout contest.
Fans endured a dull first half, with neither team managing to establish control or produce the decisive moment that could break the deadlock.
The second half followed a similar pattern, as Durban City and Stellenbosch cancelled each other out in midfield, leaving supporters wondering whether the match would require extra time or a penalty shootout to determine the winner.
However, Kwayiba had other ideas.
With the clock ticking towards the final whistle, the Stellenbosch attacker finally broke the deadlock in the 83rd minute, finding the back of the net to hand the visitors a crucial late lead after he completed Lateef Adejanju’ supply.
The goal changed the complexion of the contest, forcing Durban City to abandon their cautious approach and push forward in search of an equaliser.
But Stellenbosch remained determined to protect their advantage and capitalise on the space left behind by their opponents.
Kwayiba completed his brace in the fourth minutes of referee’s added time (90+4 minutes) following another supply from Adeyanju to give the Cape Winelands side a deserved 2-0 victory, ensuring that their late breakthrough was enough to send them through to the last eight.
For Durban City, the defeat was a disappointing end to their Carling Knockout campaign, particularly after they had the opportunity to progress in front of their home supporters at Chatsworth Stadium.
The result also highlighted the fine margins that often separate success from disappointment in knockout football, where a single moment of individual brilliance can decide an otherwise closely contested encounter.
Stellenbosch will now turn their attention to the quarter-finals as they continue their pursuit of Carling Knockout silverware, while Durban City must shift their focus back to their domestic league commitments.
The quarterfinals draw was shortly conducted after the match and the fixtures is as follows:
Stellenbosch FC v AmaZulu FC, Orlando Pirates v Sekhukhune United, Kaizer Chiefs v Siwelele FC, and Mamelodi Sundowns v Lamontville Golden Arrows FC.