Marumo Gallants stage incredible comeback to stun Saint Eloi Lupopo

With an eye on the upcoming domestic action, Gallants fielded Abram Ngcobo, Boitumelo Pheko, Sizwe Mdlinzo, Pule Maraisane, Sibusiso Nkosi, and Judas Moseamedi.

Nkosi came close to scoring the opener for the home team with a powerful free-kick from 30 yards out, but he hit the crossbar. Against the run of play, Saint Eloi Lupopo took the lead when former Cape Town City player Allan Kateregga scored from a close-range finish.

However, Gallants didn't lose focus and came close to drawing level when Nkosi hit the foot of the outside post after weaving through the area from a tight angle. Saint Eloi Lupopo added a second goal before half-time, when Malanga Mwaku struck out a leg and aided a penetrative shot towards the target past Ngcobo.

Joseph Molangoane, former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder, was introduced by Gallants before the second half as Mdlinzo made way for the utility player. The home team showed a lot of purpose after the break and reduced the deficit midway through the second half when Sibusiso Sibeko pounced on a floated ball and slotted in from five yards out.

Substitute Ranga Chivaviro completed the comeback for the home team when he curled in the top corner from a tight angle.

Gallants continued to take control and went ahead in the last 15 minutes after Moseamedi picked up a loose ball from a scramble in the box and lashed it into the bottom corner to make the score 3-2.

Both teams got chances as the minutes ticked away, but the host stood firm and emerged victorious to confirm top spot of Group A.