Diepkloof Giants take down Zebras on penalties

Diepkloof Giants and Diepkloof Zebras went head-to-head in the opening match of the top four tournament at Diepkloof sports ground on March 21.

The highly anticipated game was hard, with both teams giving it their all in an intense encounter.

The first half belonged to Diepkloof Zebras, with Thamsanqa Tibe scoring a first goal to give his team a lead. The Zebras’ defense was tough, denying the Giants a chance to win.

ALSO READ: Da Boys FC celebrates 10 years of soccer excellence

However, the second half saw a recovery from Diepkloof Giants, with Khehla Mahlenza scoring an equalising goal.

The goal gave the Giants hope, and they pushed harder for the win. Despite their best efforts, the score remained tied at 1-1 at full time.

The game was still tied after regular time, so it went to a penalty shootout. The players were under a lot of pressure as they took their penalty shots.

In the end, Diepkloof Giants won by scoring six penalties to Diepkloof Zebras’ five.

Diepkloof Giants coach Simon Seletisha praised his team’s determination and strength after they came back from a shortfall to win the game in a penalty shootout. Despite a tough first half, the team regrouped and made strategic changes to secure the victory.

According to coach Mduduzi Ngcama of Diepklook Zebras, his team had a strong start, scoring first and dominating the first half.

ALSO READ: Eldorado Park soccer lovers show support to favourite clubs

However, they lost their momentum, allowing Diepkloof Giants to tie the game, leading to a penalty shootout.

Ngcama admitted that his team missed several scoring chances in the last ten minutes, which could have changed the outcome.

“The game was very simple, but we took things for granted. However, because we have a wining mentality, we managed to win.

“We have learned from our mistakes and going forward, we are going to do things differently,” said Khehla Mahlenza, man of the match.