Lafitte: Cup run a chance to build Gallants’ legacy

There’s a quiet revolution brewing at Marumo Gallants, led by a coach barely older than some of his players. 

On Sunday, the unflappable Alexandre Lafitte will stride into the King Zwelithini Stadium with a chance to write a new chapter in the club’s young story — a place in the Carling Knockout Cup final.

The 28-year-old Frenchman has been one of the season’s most intriguing figures in South African football. 

Since taking over earlier this year alongside assistant Julien Outrebon, Lafitte has transformed the Bloemfontein-based outfit into a confident, compact, and tactically disciplined side — unafraid of facing the giants of the local game.

Under his watch, Gallants have produced memorable performances against Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, and Mamelodi Sundowns, earning admiration across the league for their structure, spirit, and growing confidence. 

But on Sunday, they will test themselves against another in-form team — Lamontville Golden Arrows, who have quietly built a reputation for their attacking flair and consistency.

Before moving to South Africa, Lafitte made history by leading Stade Abidjan to their first Ivorian league title in 56 years and a return to the CAF Champions League. 

Yet, he refuses to make his past achievements the story.

“For me, it’s not important — the most important is the club and the team,” said Lafitte. 

“Yes, last season I won a title and coached in the CAF Champions League, but this season the objective is different with Marumo Gallants. We’re not playing to win the league, so the chance to get into a cup final is big for the club, and potentially winning a trophy would be fantastic.”

The French mentor knows the stakes are high, but his approach is calm and calculated. 

“At the moment it’s important to remain calm and respect the opposition because it’s going to be tough playing Golden Arrows,” he said. 

“We’ll need to be very well prepared to have any chance of qualifying for the final.”

For Lafitte, this semi-final isn’t just about silverware — it’s part of a longer journey to build a sustainable, winning culture at the club.

“It’s important for different reasons — for the club, because it’s important to continue building history,” he explained. 

“For the players, we have a lot of young players and less experience, and this is an important moment for them to learn. This is not a normal game, and it could be big to build our season.”

Lafitte ended by emphasising the collective mentality that has carried Gallants this far. 

“It is not easy, we are coming up against a good team, and for that it’s important that we are ready,” he said. 

“Everyone at the club should be ready for the same focus and objective.”

In just a few months, Alexandre Lafitte has turned Gallants from hopefuls into believers. 

Now, with 90 minutes separating them from the final, belief could become history — and history could become legacy.