Durban City FC secured a place in the Carling Knockout quarterfinals with a stunning 4-1 victory over Polokwane City after extra time at the Chatsworth Stadium. The night belonged to Fezile Gcaba, who delivered a career-defining performance by scoring his first-ever professional hat-trick.

Key Moments

• 12’ – Gcaba opened the scoring, giving Durban City the early advantage.
• 88’ – Polokwane City equalized late through a Lebohang Nkaki penalty, pushing the match into extra time.
• 93’ – Mfanfuthi Mkhize restored Durban City’s lead with a crucial goal.
• 111’ & 114’ – Gcaba struck twice in quick succession, completing his hat-trick and sealing the win.

Man of the Match

Fezile Gcaba was deservedly named Man of the Match, walking away not only with the match ball but also a R100,000 prize from Carling Black Label for his stellar display.

Fan & Media Reactions

• Durban City FC (Official): “A treble in front of the Chatsworth faithful! Take a bow, Fezile Gcaba!”
• Carling Black Label: “Congratulations to Fezile Gcaba for putting up a stellar performance. He walks away with R100K.”
• Lorenz Köhler (Journalist): “Durban City thump Polokwane City 4-1 AET to book their place in the quarter-finals.”
• Fans praised Gcaba’s determination, with some pointing out how a late penalty against him sparked his fightback.

Broadcast & Coverage

The match was broadcast live on SABC 3 and streamed on SABC Plus, with Gcaba’s heroics quickly trending across South Africa.

What’s Next?

Durban City march into the quarterfinals of the Carling Knockout, with Gcaba’s form becoming a key talking point. The big question is whether he can maintain this level and drive his team even deeper into the tournament.