Arrows played some of their best attacking football of the season but were ultimately undone by a lack of clinical finishing — and a heroic performance from veteran goalkeeper Washington Arubi — as they lost 5-4 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in extra-time.
Goals from Isaac Cisse and Nqubeko Dlamini had given the KwaZulu-Natal side hope of a home final, but Gallants fought back through Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo and Daniel Msendami before holding their nerve in the shootout to set up a final clash with Orlando Pirates.
In his post-match reflections, Mngqithi admitted that while his team played the better football, the result came down to moments they failed to seize.
"The last 15 or 20 minutes of the second half, we should have scored maybe one or two goals, or even three," said the former Mamelodi Sundowns coach.
"In extra-time, I don't think I've ever seen a team create so many chances in 15 minutes"."
However, Mngqithi was unimpressed with Gallants' approach, accusing them of prioritising penalties over playing to win.
"They knew Arubi was strong on penalties, so they played for that," he added.
"Not impressed with their football, but they're in the final. Impressed with our football, but not in the final — that's football for you."
Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz believes his side should have secured qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup group stages long before the penalty shootout against Red Arrows.
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has admitted that his team's mistakes and failure to manage their emotions proved costly as they suffered a shock elimination from the CAF Champions League.
AmaZulu and Sekhukhune United are among the favourites to progress ahead of the upcoming four Carling Knockout Cup Round of 16 fixtures this weekend.
Golden Arrows have officially announced that Mandla Ncikazi has rejoined the club as head coach after parting ways with Pitso Dladla on Thursday evening.
