Chippa United co-coach Thabo September is content that his team can find goals from set pieces even if they struggle to score in open play. Chippa secured their spot in the Nedbank Cup semifinals with a 2-0 victory over TS Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday.

Their next challenge will be against the defending champions, Orlando Pirates, in the last four next month. This exciting encounter is likely to take place at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

Chippa has found success recently with set plays, scoring from one against Kaizer Chiefs last week at home.

“I’m pleased with the overall teamwork and everyone’s hard work,” September said. “The set pieces are still very effective for us, and we scored again from a throw-in.”

September and Kwanele Kopo, appointed during the Africa Cup of Nations break, achieved their wish of a home semifinal in the Ke Yona Cup.

“I was just hoping for a home draw, for the Eastern Cape people,” September explained. “It didn’t matter who we were drawn against. It’s a cup game, a semi-final, and any team there is a top team.”

Chippa, who fell to Marumo Gallants in the 2021 final thanks to a thunderous strike from Pirates’ Philip Ndlondlo, haven’t beaten Pirates at home since 2016 under Dan Malesela. Malesela’s leadership also helped Chippa achieve a top-eight finish for the first time in their history.

This feat has eluded them in recent seasons, as they’ve been focused on avoiding relegation.

Picture courtesy of Chippa United