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."
Marumo Gallants coach Alexandre Lafitte believes his side has what it takes to pull off another upset when they face Orlando Pirates in the Carling Knockout final at Peter Mokaba Stadium on December 6.
Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Kgaogelo Sekgota is embracing a new chapter in his life and career after completing a four-month rehabilitation programme at the Hope of Achievers Rehabilitation Centre outside Polokwane.
Orlando Pirates will enjoy home advantage when they take on Marumo Gallants in the 2025 Carling Knockout Cup final, after the Premier Soccer League (PSL) confirmed the venue and date for the much-anticipated clash.
Richards Bay mentor Ronnie Gabriel was proud of his players despite their 1-0 defeat to Orlando Pirates in the semi-finals of the Carling Knockout.
