Veteran goalkeeper Washington Arubi says he is “honoured” to be
contesting another major final with Marumo Gallants as they prepare to face
Orlando Pirates in the 2025 Carling Knockout final this Saturday.
This weekend’s clash at the Peter Mokaba Stadium will mark the 38-year-old’s
third cup final with the same club, tracing back to its origins as Tshakhuma
Tsha Madzivhandila (TTM). However, the Zimbabwean international admits a
crucial piece is missing from his remarkable story: lifting this specific
trophy.
“I feel honoured to play my third final with the same team. It’s an
achievement for me,” Arubi said. “I just have to polish it up by winning the
cup final on Saturday.”
He anticipates a formidable challenge against the Buccaneers, a team he
ranks among the continent’s elite. “It’s going to be a difficult game. Cup
finals always are,” he explained. “The pressure is there because we are
playing one of the biggest teams in Africa, not just South Africa.”
Embracing the underdog tag, Arubi believes it brings out the best in his
side. “I love it when we play like underdogs. It shows our character—how we
contain pressure and control emotions. It’s a different stage, but I’m sure
we’ll do our best.”
Having seen his team progress via penalty shootouts earlier in the
tournament, Arubi is prepared for the possibility once more—but holds his
cards close. “We’ve been training for it, and I appreciate the coach’s
advice. There’s a secret, but I can’t reveal it,” he said with a smile,
before refocusing on the primary task. “For now, I’m thinking about the
first 90 minutes. That is crucial.”
Driving him is the pursuit of a trophy that has always eluded him. “It would
be great for me to win this cup,” he reflected. While mindful of future
commitments with the Zimbabwe national team, his immediate focus is
absolute: “I’m focusing on the Carling Cup, and I’m going to work even
harder.”
Fully aware of Pirates’ stature, Arubi confirms his mind is already on the
battle. “They’re always going to be ahead of us on paper, so I’m ready for
it. My focus is already there.”
