By Levy Masiteng
Thousands of football supporters lined the streets across Durban on Wednesday evening as eThekwini Municipality hosted a victory parade for Durban City Football Club after its historic Nedbank Cup triumph.
Supporters waved flags, sang club songs and donned team colours as they welcomed home the newly crowned champions, who proudly showcased the Nedbank Cup trophy from an open-top convoy.
Durban City secured their place in South African football history on 2 May after defeating TS Galaxy 2-1 in the Nedbank Cup final at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, to lift their first-ever major trophy.
“This victory is not only a proud moment for Durban City Football Club, but for the entire city,” said eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba.
“The team has demonstrated determination, discipline, and excellence throughout the tournament, and we are proud to celebrate this historic achievement with our residents.”
The parade started at the University of KwaZulu-Natal Howard College sports grounds, where the team trains, before moving through Cato Manor, West Ridge and Warwick Avenue.
The celebrations later made their way to the Durban City Hall for a special trophy photo session before concluding at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
“Today’s celebrations reflected the unity and passion that sport brings to our communities,” said Xaba.
Hundreds of supporters also gathered outside City Hall to witness the historic moment and celebrate alongside the champions.
“We would like to thank everyone who came today to celebrate with us. We didn’t think this would happen, especially with such a small team. We thank everyone who supported us through this, we believe there are more triumphs to come,” said club captain Siphamandla Ncanana.
“We are grateful for this gesture, we are feeling at home and we are at home, we promise the city that a lot is still coming,” said coach Pitso Dladla.
INSIDE METROS
