Griquas vs Lions: Preview and Predictions

The semi-final of the 2026 Carling Currie Cup Premier Division begins as the Suzuki Griquas take on the Fidelity ADT Lions on Sunday, 6 September. The Griquas sit in first position on the log with 31 points. The Lions sit in fourth position with 20 points.  

Both sides enter this match on a high after wins last weekend. These wins secured their spots in the semi-finals. The reigning champions, the Griquas, come off back-to-back wins. They have positioned themselves in a strong first-place spot. 

The Lions, on the other hand, come in on a win after a draw and double losses.  

Why This Match Matters So Much 

There is a place in the 2026 Carling Currie Cup final at stake. This makes this a completely different challenge from the regular-season meeting between these sides. 

Griquas have home advantage and the confidence of an excellent campaign behind them. They also know they can beat the Lions at Suzuki Stadium, having secured a 31-19 victory when the teams met in Kimberley in August.  

For the Lions, the objective is to overturn that result when it matters most. Their 36-12 win over the Stormers showed that they can produce a big performance when their season is on the line, and another strong showing could send them into a third consecutive Currie Cup final. 

Tactical Overview  

Griquas’ biggest strength has been their consistency at both ends of the field. They scored 271 points during the league phase while conceding just 143, giving them the best points difference in the competition. They also scored 40 tries, more than any other team.  

Their set-piece and physicality will be particularly important. Griquas caused the Lions problems at the lineout during their earlier meeting, while their ability to turn pressure into points helped them control the match for long periods.  

The Lions will need to find ways to disrupt that platform while making the most of their own attacking opportunities. They scored 32 tries during the league phase, the third-highest total in the competition, showing they have plenty of attacking firepower. 

Players to Watch  

TBC (Griquas)  

McMillen Mongwana (Lions)  

Lions captain McMillen Mongwana will be one to watch in the midfield. Operating at inside centre, Mongwana brings leadership and physicality to the Lions’ backline. With the semi-final likely to be decided by the battle for territory and momentum, his ability to carry hard, create opportunities, and make crucial defensive plays could prove important against a strong Griquas side.  

Starting Lineup (Griquas)  

TBC 

Starting Lineup (Lions)  

1. David Hayidakis 

2. Thapelo Mphela 

3. Luca Trevisan 

4. Lian Terblanche 

5. James Schnetler 

6. Risima Khosa 

7. Jaythen Orange 

8. Luke Kent 

9. Elgernon Meyer 

10. Jeandre Uithaler 

11. Adriano Jackson 

12. McMillen Mongwana (C) 

13. Likhona Kepe 

14. Lindelani Nkambule 

15. Alzeadon Felix  

Replacements  

16. Keenan Myners  

17. Andre Poulton 

18. Miguel Smith 

19. Dyan van Wyk 

20. Jamaal Feldman 

21. Talent Sithole 

22. Rekkie Gerber  

23. Toy Engelbrecht  

Match Details 

Date: 6 September 2026  

Venue: Suzuki Stadium, Kimberly 

Kick-off Time: 13:00pm  

TV: SuperSport  

Prediction  

Griquas have been the standout team in the 2026 Carling Currie Cup. They finished top of the table with six wins from seven matches and secured home advantage for the semi-final. Their 31-19 victory over the Lions earlier in the season is another reason to back the defending champions. 

The Lions have the experience and attacking quality to make this a competitive semi-final, but Griquas’ consistency, defence, and home advantage should give them the edge. 

Prediction: Griquas to win 

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