We can beat Pirates — Lafitte backs Gallants to shine in Carling KO final

Marumo Gallants coach Alexandre Lafitte was full of praise for his players after they reached the Carling Knockout Cup final — and believes they have what it takes to overcome Orlando Pirates.

Gallants edged Golden Arrows 4-2 on penalties at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday to book their place in the final, setting up a showdown with the Soweto giants set to take place on the sixth of December at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.

“This is a fantastic result for the team and for the club,” said Lafitte, after the match. 

“It was a really difficult game, especially in extra time, because the intensity decreased. Still, I liked the mentality from my team to stay in the game and force the penalty shootout.”

At just 28-years old, Lafitte has made an instant impression in South African football, guiding the Free State outfit to their first major cup final under his watch. The Frenchman’s tactical structure and calm approach have been evident in Gallants’ cup run, which has seen them eliminate Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch FC, and now Arrows.

Looking ahead to the final, Lafitte said his team’s collective focus gives them belief that they can compete with the best — including Pirates, who reached the final after a 1-0 win over Richards Bay.

“I think I have a team that is capable of playing a cup game against any strong opponents because they focus for the same objective,” he said. 

“I am confident of beating Pirates but I know it’s not my immediate worry because it’s gonna be a while before we play them. So, we won our last game at home against Pirates.”

While acknowledging the challenge posed by the Buccaneers, Lafitte emphasised that his side will use the coming weeks to prepare meticulously for what could be a defining occasion in their campaign.

“When you play a final, of course you want to win,” he added. 

“I think we’ll have enough time to prepare, analyse them before we play them. I know it’s Pirates and their players, but we’ll come up with a strategy.”

Lafitte’s measured confidence has been a hallmark of his coaching style. Even in tight contests, his belief in his players’ ability to execute under pressure has helped Gallants navigate tricky fixtures with composure and resilience.

The French tactician, who led Stade Abidjan to the Ivorian league title last season, continues to build his reputation in South Africa with Gallants’ latest cup success. And as his team gears up for the Carling Knockout Cup final, Lafitte’s words carry both belief and intent — Gallants may be underdogs, but they have proven they can rise to the occasion against anyone.

For Lafitte and his players, the next challenge is not just to compete in the final — but to make history by lifting the club’s first top-flight trophy.