Cape Town City and Casric Stars played to a 1-1 draw in their final PSL promotion playoff match at the DHL Stadium. Both teams entered the match knowing their hopes of promotion were already over, leaving pride as the only thing at stake.
Early Action and a Shared Spoils
The game started brightly for Cape Town City, with Ah Shene capitalising on a looping ball from Sifumba to give the home side an early lead in just the second minute. However, Casric Stars responded quickly, with Chauke beating Gordinho to a loose ball and slotting it past the City keeper, Luca Diana-Oliaro.
City pushed for a winner, with Ah Shene missing a golden opportunity to restore the lead. Casric coach Joseph Mthombeni made a substitution at halftime, bringing on Abbey Seseane for Augustine Mahlonoko.
Second Half Stalemate
The second half saw both teams make changes, with City introducing Emile Witbooi and Luyolo Slatsha. Witbooi proved lively, creating spaces and running between the lines. Casric's Seseane nearly scored with a long-range effort, but his shot missed the target. In the dying minutes, City's Cee-Jay Bezuidenhout had a one-on-one chance to win the game but failed to convert, leaving the final score at 1-1.
Disappointment for Both Sides
Both Cape Town City and Casric Stars will be playing in the Motsepe Foundation Championship next season after Orbit College secured promotion. City interim head coach Diogo Peral expressed his disappointment after their loss to Orbit College earlier in the week, lamenting missed opportunities. The draw was a fitting end to disappointing playoff campaigns for both teams.
Players to Watch
- Cape Town City: Emile Witbooi - The young talent is seen as a potential game-changer with his ability to create moments of magic.
- Casric Stars: Kermit Erasmus - The experienced PSL veteran, formerly of Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Cape Town City, was expected to be a key figure for Casric Stars.