This weekend, the Carling Knockout Last 16 takes center stage as 16 topflight teams vie for a crucial piece of silverware in the 2024/25 Premier Soccer League season. The draw has paired the top eight teams from last season against the bottom eight, including promoted Magesi FC.
With high stakes and intense rivalries, let’s dive into the key fixtures and their potential outcomes.
AmaZulu vs. Stellenbosch FC
Friday, 7 PM – King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium
Defending champions Stellenbosch FC return to Durban with a chip on their shoulder after their recent MTN8 defeat to Orlando Pirates. With a new coaching duo at AmaZulu—Arthur Zwane and Vusi Vilakazi—expect an electrifying atmosphere as they aim to leverage home advantage. Historically, Stellenbosch has struggled against AmaZulu, winning just two of their ten encounters since promotion. Will the experience of being reigning champions give Stellies the edge they need to overcome their historical shortcomings?
22/10 AmaZulu | Draw 2/1 | Stellenbosch 12/10
Orlando Pirates vs. Magesi FC
Saturday, 3 PM – Orlando Stadium
This matchup appears to be a favorable draw for Orlando Pirates, who are in exceptional form in knockout competitions, boasting five wins from their last six attempts. Magesi FC, making their debut in this prestigious tournament, face a daunting task against a side with a proven track record. Pirates’ confidence is palpable, and the pressure will be on Magesi’s coach, Clinton Larsen, who has past success in the knockout scene. Can the newcomers upset the odds?
4/10 Pirates | Draw 3/1 | Magesi 6/1
Polokwane City vs. Marumo Gallants
Saturday, 3 PM – Old Peter Mokaba Stadium
This clash promises to be a fierce local derby, though it lacks the same narrative as last season, given Gallants’ relocation. Polokwane has shown promise early in the season, while Gallants have struggled with only one win in four league games. Expect a tightly contested match where Polokwane’s home advantage could be crucial.
7/10 Polokwane City | Draw 23/10 | Marumo Gallants 15/4
Mamelodi Sundowns vs. Lamontville Golden Arrows
Saturday, 6 PM – Lucas Moripe Stadium
Sundowns come into this matchup with a psychological advantage, having dominated Arrows in recent history. With assistant coach Steve Komphela bringing insights from last season’s squad, the hosts are expected to dominate once again. Arrows, under Mabhuti Khenyeza, will need to defy the odds, but a victory here would require a monumental effort against a side that’s seemingly invincible at home.
6/10 Sundowns | Draw 2/1 | Arrows 12/10
SuperSport United vs. Kaizer Chiefs
Saturday, 8 PM – Peter Mokaba Stadium
This is a matchup filled with intrigue as SuperSport United faces Kaizer Chiefs in a rematch, with both teams eyeing a much-needed trophy. Gavin Hunt returns to confront his former club, and with a balanced historical record of recent encounters, this could go either way. With Chiefs desperate for silverware since 2015, this knockout might represent their best chance this season.
22/10 SuperSport Utd | Draw 2/1 | Chiefs 12/10
Cape Town City vs. Royal AM
Saturday, 8 PM – Athlone Stadium
After a closely contested league matchup earlier this season, this fixture holds potential for another dramatic encounter. Royal AM, despite a depleted squad, has shown resilience in Cape Town. Their previous cup history against City adds an extra layer of tension. Will they be able to continue their strong run in the Mother City?
11/10 CT City | Draw 21/10 | Royal AM 23/10
TS Galaxy vs. Chippa United
Sunday, 3 PM – Mbombela Stadium
In a repeat of last season’s quarterfinals, TS Galaxy and Chippa United face off once again. Galaxy’s recent struggles may come into play against a Chippa side that has found form with recent league wins. Both teams will be looking to make a statement here, but can Chippa maintain their momentum against a Galaxy side eager to prove their worth?
5/2 TS Galaxy | Draw 22/10 | Chippa United 1/1
Richards Bay vs. Sekhukhune United
Sunday, 3 PM – King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium
Richards Bay faces Sekhukhune in a rematch that also sees coaching dynamics come into play, as Brandon Truter goes against his former side. Both teams have had their ups and downs, with Richards Bay looking to build on their solid knockout pedigree. With past encounters evenly split, this clash promises to be a nail-biter.
As the excitement builds for the Carling Knockout Last 16, each fixture presents unique narratives and potential upsets. Fans can expect an unforgettable weekend of South African football.
22/10 Richards Bay | Draw 2/1 | Sekhukhune 12/10
