Orlando Pirates midfielder Kabelo Dlamini expressed his delight at reaching the Nedbank Cup final, a target the team had set for themselves.

Dlamini was the hero for Pirates in their 3-1 semi-final victory over Chippa United at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday. He bagged a brace in the first half, while Thapelo Xoki added another after Elmo Kambindu pulled one back for Chippa.

This win gives Pirates a chance to defend their Nedbank Cup title and potentially secure another double under coach Jose Riveiro, having already won the MTN8 trophy earlier this season. Their opponent in the final will be the winner of the other semi-final clash between Stellenbosch FC and Mamelodi Sundowns.

“Reaching the final was crucial because that’s what we were aiming for,” Dlamini said with a grin with SuperSport TV.

Dlamini himself has battled with injuries throughout the season, hindering his consistency in the starting lineup.

“The first half of the season was tough for me with all the injuries,” Dlamini reflected. “But I’m happy to be back and contributing when the team needs me most. Now we’re performing well in the second half of the season.”

Reaching the cup final adds another dimension to Pirates’ season. They are also chasing a second-place finish in the league, currently held by Stellenbosch who are three points clear after 26 matches.

The Nedbank Cup final will be played at Mbombela Stadium on 1 June.

Picture courtesy Orlando Pirates