The Botshabelo-based men’s football outfit Mathaithai received a relatively favourable draw going into the last-32 group stage of the Nedbank Cup.
This second-tier side was pitted against NC Professionals from the Northern Cape in a draw in Johannesburg on Wednesday (12/01).
Both sides campaign in the ABC Motsepe League in their respective provinces.
Mathaithai qualified for the last-32 group stage for the second consecutive year, having achieved this feat in 2020.
Their spot in the group stage was secured by beating Mikhado FC by 1 – 0 in Daveyton at the Sinaba Stadium on 20 November. Doctor Mmotong scored the winning goal.
In 2020 the Mathaithai outfit was denied a chance to compete at this level after Safa decided to withdraw all its affiliated teams from further participation in the tournament.
The federation, citing the second wave of Covid-19, suspended all football competitions under its auspices in line with health and safety measures to combat the spread of the virus.
Mathaithai’s progression to the last-32 group stage has brought the side closer to receiving R100 000, a reward for all clubs that reach this stage of the championship.
Mathaithai overcame strong contenders in the Free State’s ABC Motsepe League to secure their spot. They beat crosstown opponents Clever Boys by 1 – 0, Bloemfontein Young Tigers by 5 – 4 and Excelsior United by 5 – 4 on penalties in preliminary matches in September and October.
- The Professionals from Olifantshoek will be making their second appearance in the group stage. In 2019 they were eliminated by Mbombela United when they lost by 1 – 2.
