The excitement around South Africa’s premier cup competition is back as the Carling Knockout enters its third edition, following the tournament’s rebranding from the Telkom Knockout Cup.
Football fans are gearing up for another thrilling knockout stage filled with surprises, upsets, and memorable moments.
Stellenbosch FC Makes History in Opening Edition
The pride of the Cape Winelands, Stellenbosch FC, set the bar high by winning the inaugural edition of the Carling Knockout.
They clinched their first-ever trophy after a tense penalty shootout victory over TS Galaxy at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
That historic win has left fans hoping for more magic from the Western Cape side.
Last Season’s Fairy-Tale Champions
Last season brought one of the most remarkable stories in recent South African football.
Newly promoted Magesi FC, who had just climbed from the Motsepe Foundation Championship to the Betway Premiership, defied expectations by winning the title.
Their 2-1 triumph over football giants Mamelodi Sundowns at Free State Stadium captured the imagination of fans nationwide and cemented their place as a club to watch.
Magesi FC Kicks Off Title Defence in Durban
As defending champions, Magesi FC will start their campaign with a challenging away fixture against AmaZulu in Durban. The team will be looking to prove that last season’s success was no fluke as they aim to defend their crown in front of passionate crowds.
Exciting Last 16 Fixtures to Watch
One of the most anticipated clashes in the Last 16 is Stellenbosch FC versus Kaizer Chiefs.
Kaizer Chiefs are making their second trip to Cape Town after a strong 2-0 opening weekend win in the Betway Premiership, promising an intense matchup against the Western Cape side.
Other fixtures also promise drama and surprises.
Top-flight newcomers Orbit College will host TS Galaxy, while fellow rookies Siwelele FC travel to Soweto to face MTN8 champions Orlando Pirates.
Fans can expect action-packed encounters across the board as teams battle to reach the quarter-finals.
Full Carling Knockout Last 16 Draw
Here’s how the draw shapes up for the Last 16:
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AmaZulu vs Magesi FC
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Mamelodi Sundowns vs Marumo Gallants
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Stellenbosch FC vs Kaizer Chiefs
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Orbit College FC vs TS Galaxy
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Durban City vs Polokwane City
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Richards Bay vs Chippa United
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Orlando Pirates vs Siwelele FC
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Golden Arrows vs Sekhukhune
Dates and venues for the fixtures are yet to be confirmed, but anticipation is already building among fans eager to see who will make it to the next round.
Fans Ready for Another Thrilling Cup Run
With past winners like Stellenbosch and Magesi setting the stage, the Carling Knockout continues to showcase the unpredictable and exciting nature of South African football.
Every match promises passion, skill, and moments that fans will remember long after the final whistle.