Eric Tinkler laments defensive errors despite Sekhukhune's MTN8 progress

The quarter-final clash saw Babina Noko fall 2–0 behind in the first half, before staging a spirited fightback led by new signing Bradley Grobler, who scored twice to help his side recover and advance to the last four.

The visitors made their intentions clear from the outset, pressing Sekhukhune high and capitalising on defensive lapses. Mpho Mvelase opened the scoring in the 14th minute, before Bafana Bafana forward Victor Letsoalo doubled the advantage with a composed finish in the 41st.

Just two minutes later, Grobler handed the hosts a lifeline by pulling a goal back before the break. A much-improved second-half showing followed, with Grobler completing his brace in the 64th minute to draw level, before a late strike sealed the win.

While pleased with the result, Tinkler cut a frustrated figure when reflecting on his team's first-half display.

"I don't think we played really well in the first half," Tinkler told SuperSport TV. "I'm very disappointed with how we conceded the goals - one from a set piece and the other from open play. During pre-season, we spoke a lot about the importance of keeping clean sheets.

"We found ourselves two-nil down, and that's not a great place to be in a knockout match. Scoring just before half-time gave us a bit of momentum, and the second half was a lot better. I thought we were by far the better team and deserved the two goals we got."

Sekhukhune are now the second team to book their spot in the semi-finals, joining Orlando Pirates, who earlier in the day eased past Polokwane City with a 2–0 victory at Orlando Stadium.

With a place in the final now within reach, Tinkler will be hoping for a more complete performance in the next round - especially at the back.