Watch VideoThe magic of the Nedbank Cup is alive – and it’s wearing NFD colours

Will we see an all-NFD final in this year’s Nedbank Cup? Casric Stars, coached by Bucs Mthombeni, and Milford FC are ready to take down the giants this weekend. Photo: Backpagepix Regarded as the country’s premier knockout competition, theNedbank Cuphas lived up to expectations this season with thrilling ‘David vs Goliath’ clashes.

More history could be written as the competition enters its final stages. Motsepe Foundation Championship sidesCasric Stars and Milford FCare close to a fairytale ending in the competition, as they are in the semi-finals where they’ll face Betway Premiership clubsDurban CityandTS Galaxythis weekend.Granted, City and Galaxy have the advantage heading into the two clashes, but they will underestimate their National First Division opponents at their own peril. Motsepe Foundation Championship sidesCasric Stars and Milford FCare close to a fairytale ending in the competition, as they are in the semi-finals where they’ll face Betway Premiership clubsDurban CityandTS Galaxythis weekend.

Granted, City and Galaxy have the advantage heading into the two clashes, but they will underestimate their National First Division opponents at their own peril. Stars haven’t been in the competition to make up the numbers. Their run has included some giant-killing performances, having caused major upsets by beating Orlando Pirates and AmaZulu FCen routeto the semi-finals.

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Galaxy etched their name in the history books a few years ago, becoming the first and only second-tier side to win theKe YonaCup. It was a huge moment for the competition and for South African football. Granted, the early elimination of 14 top-flight teams in the competition was a blow for the sponsors in terms of return on investment, as they will be hoping for a strong turnout in the final.

However, this is what the competition is about – realising dreams. That is why many in the football fraternity are dreaming of an all-NFD final, where one side would be guaranteed the title, a R7 million cheque, and a place in theCAF Confederation Cupnext season. Coach Dr Xanti Pupuma, a gynaecologist by profession, has ensured the team continues to break barriers. Having eliminated his childhood club Kaizer Chiefs in the first round, Milford could achieve the improbable by finishing the season as double champions.

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