Goodman Dlamini’s goal ensured Free State Stars lifted the 2017/18 Nedbank Cup trophy when they beat Maritzburg United 1-0 at the Cape Town Stadium on Saturday night.

As a result of their victory, Stars are now through to next season’s CAF Confederation Cup where they will join Kaizer Chiefs.

The Team of Choice had a bright start in the encounter, but they could not break down the Stars defence with their one-touch football in the first 10 minutes.

Although Fadlu Davids’ men had the upper hand in the tie towards the 20th minute, chances were few and far between in the final third.

The Team of Choice kept Ea Lla Koto in their own half as they had more time on the ball, yet could not beat goalkeeper Thela Ngobeni.

However, Dlamini netted for Stars on the stroke of halftime against the run of play. United failed to clear the ball and he beat Richard Ofori with a neat finish from close range – 1-0 to Ea Lla Koto at the interval.

The second half was a see saw affair as both sides attacked however Free State Stars held on to the solitary goal until the final whistle to be crowned champions under coach Luc Eyamel.