Kwayiba double sends Stellenbosch FC into Carling Knockout quarter-finals

Stellenbosch FC became the final side to reach the Carling Knockout quarter-finals after Sinoxolo Kwayiba scored twice late on to secure a 2-0 victory over Durban City on Wednesday night.

Kwayiba broke the deadlock in the 84th minute before completing his brace in stoppage time, ending Durban City’s hopes of progressing and sending Stellenbosch FC into the last eight.

Durban City head coach Eric Tinkler made three changes following the club’s weekend CAF Confederation Cup trip to Mauritius. Letsie Koapeng, Alou Doumbia and Fezile Gcaba came into the starting line-up, replacing Jean Lumbamba, Bandile Shandu and John Mokone.

The hosts were forced into an early alteration when veteran attacking midfielder Gaston Sirino went off injured after 16 minutes. Samkelo Maseko replaced him.

Neither team managed to impose themselves during a largely uneventful opening half. The first 30 minutes passed without either goalkeeper being seriously tested as both sides struggled to create clear chances.

The match produced its first noteworthy effort five minutes after the interval. Haashim Domingo was allowed time to shoot from distance, but Nathan Garrow reacted well to keep out his attempt.

The contest became more heated with around 20 minutes remaining after a late challenge led to a brief confrontation between the two sets of players. The teams had to be separated, but the incident also helped raise the tempo of the match.

Stellenbosch FC came close to taking the lead in the 77th minute. Terrence Mashego delivered a cross towards Daniels, whose header was superbly stopped by Durban City goalkeeper Frederick Asare.

The visitors finally made the breakthrough seven minutes before the end. Kazeem was released into space on the left and squared the ball for Kwayiba, who finished first time beyond Asare.

That was Kwayiba’s second goal in as many matches, and he added another in the fourth minute of added time. Stellenbosch FC counter-attacked effectively, allowing the forward to finish the move and confirm their place in the quarter-finals.

Durban City’s next five fixtures are away matches against Mamelodi Sundowns and TS Galaxy, followed by a home game against Polokwane City, an away fixture at Siwelele FC and a home meeting with Marumo Gallants.

Stellenbosch FC will host Chippa United before travelling to Richards Bay. They then face TS Galaxy at home, visit Orlando Pirates and conclude the sequence with a home match against Milford FC.