The last time these two sides met, was back in round three of the competition in March, when their clash in Bloemfontein was abandoned due to severe lightning around the Toyota Stadium. A delayed kick-off and multiple stoppages caused by lightning strikes within a 15km radius eventually forced officials to call the game off after just 34 minutes of play.

At the time, the Pumas had edged ahead 10-7 thanks to a Clinton Swart penalty, but because a full half had not been completed, the points were shared between the two teams.

André Fouché defending the line against the Suzuki Griquas in Kimberley. Photo: Morgan Piek

For the Cheetahs, it felt like a missed opportunity. After weathering an early storm that included a try by hooker Gustav du Randt, the hosts had started to wrestle back momentum before the second lightning delay ultimately ended proceedings.

Fast forward to the playoffs, and another thrilling battle of the Big Cats awaits in the Lowveld. The Pumas will back themselves at home, especially considering they beat the Cheetahs 46-38 the last time the two teams met in Nelspruit during the SA Cup.

That said, the Cheetahs head into the semi-final with renewed confidence after their dramatic 32-31 victory over the log-leading Suzuki Griquas in Bloemfontein on Friday. The result secured their place in the Currie Cup and, with that pressure now lifted, the Free Staters can attack the knockout clash with freedom and nothing to lose.

Pumas loose forward André Fouché, whose father represented the Griffons, told OFM Sport that matches against the Cheetahs are always special occasions.

“It’s truly special to be part of the old classic cat fight. It’s always a massive occasion and a game with so much history behind it,” said the former NWU Eagles stalwart and 2022 Player of the Year.

“The past few years, the games between our two teams have been incredibly exciting to watch, so we’re really up for it and can’t wait for this one.”

Gustav du Randt flying over for his try against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein. Photo: Morgan Piek

Fouché added the abandoned fixture earlier this season has added even more intrigue to Saturday’s encounter.

“With the previous match being cancelled because of lightning and only about 30 minutes being played, it almost feels like we’re facing each other for the first time this season. I think it’s going to make it even more exciting.

“I’m really proud of the boys and the way we’ve performed this season so far. We’re looking forward to playing as a team, playing for each other and playing for the union.

“That’s the most important thing for us – making our fans and supporters proud, while also making ourselves and each other proud to wear the jersey and play alongside one another.

“Our focus will simply be on playing for the team, playing for the union and taking the game as it comes.”

While the Cheetahs are riding a wave of confidence, the defending champions certainly won’t hand them victory on a silver platter. The visitors will need to be sharp both mentally and physically if they are to overcome a fired-up Pumas outfit in front of a passionate Mbombela crowd.

Friday’s highly anticipated SA Cup semi-final between the Pumas and Cheetahs at Mbombela Stadium kicks off at 18:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek sm