The Carling Knockout Cup has reached the business end of the competition, with only four teams remaining as we move into the semi-final stage this weekend. Two thrilling clashes are on the cards as Richards Bay take on Orlando Pirates on Saturday, followed by Golden Arrows hosting Marumo Gallants on Sunday. Both ties are expected to be fiercely contested, with a place in the 2025 final at stake.
The competition remains a straight knockout format, with matches decided on the day. Extra time and penalties will follow if necessary and below, we take a closer look at both semi-finals from a betting front.
Richards Bay vs Orlando Pirates – click here to bet
Saturday, 8 November – Moses Mabhida Stadium
Richards Bay have been one of the surprise packages of this season’s Carling Knockout Cup. They cruised past Chippa United with a 4–1 victory in the Round of 16 and followed that up with an impressive 3–1 quarter-final win over Durban City.
The Natal outfit have looked sharp in attack, netting seven goals across their two matches, indicating their frontline is in good form.
Orlando Pirates have yet again lived up to their tag as tournament favourites. The Buccaneers edged Siwelele 1–0 in the first knockout stage thanks to a disciplined defensive display before getting ahead by two goals to defeat Magesi 2–1 in the Round of 8.
Their experience and composure in knockout football continue to shine through and they are unbeaten in their last four matches across all competitions.
Head-to-Head:
Pirates have dominated this fixture over the past year or so, winning all three meetings in all competitions. Their most recent meeting ended 3-1 in favour of the Soweto giants when they met in the Nedbank Cup in January.
Odds: Richards Bay 7.00 | Draw 3.50 | Orlando Pirates 1.53
Verdict:
Richards Bay’s attacking momentum makes them dangerous, but Pirates’ experience, structure, and depth give them a crucial edge. I am expecting a solid display from the visitors to book their spot in the final.
BET: To follow Saturday morning
Golden Arrows vs Marumo Gallants – click here to bet
Sunday, 9 November – King Zwelithini Stadium
Golden Arrows have been one of the most consistent teams in the competition. They overcame Sekhukhune United 3–1 in the opening round before seeing off TS Galaxy 2–1 in the quarterfinals.
Their attacking trio has provided plenty of firepower, while their midfield pressing has been a key feature on their route to the Semis.
Marumo Gallants have been the story of the tournament so far. They stunned heavy favourites Mamelodi Sundowns in the Round of 16, winning 7–6 on penalties after a goalless draw, before dismantling Stellenbosch 4–0 in their quarter-final clash.
Gallants have found form at the perfect time, with superb attack and their defence is looking rock solid.
Head-to-Head:
The last fixture between these sides occurred in the league on Sunday where Arrows won 4-0 at home, prior to that they met in the 24/25 season where the first match saw Arrows triumph 2-0 on home soil and the reverse leg was drawn 1-1.
Odds: Golden Arrows 2.45 | Draw 2.90 | Marumo Gallants 3.10
Verdict:
This has all the makings of a tight, tactical battle. Arrows’ attacking energy will test Gallants’ resilience, but the visitors’ defensive solidity and recent Cup heroics make them dangerous. I think that Gallants continue their incredible run with a win here.
BET: Marumo Gallants to Win at 3.10
Note: All prices are correct at the time of writing but are subject to change.
