Two KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) based sides will battle for bragging rights and a spot in the Carling Knockout semifinals as Richards Bay host Durban City at the Richards Bay Stadium on Saturday.

Kick-off is at 3pm CAT.

CURRENT FORM

Richards Bay claimed a 4-1 win over Chippa United in the first round of the Carling Knockout to advance to the quarterfinals.

Knox Mutizwa made his debut, bagging two goals while Lundi Mahala and Ntlonelo Bomelo netted a goal each.

In the club’s most recent outing in the Betway Premiership, the Natal Rich Boyz were undone by Orbit College, losing 2-1 at home.

Durban City also claimed a 4-1 victory in the first round of the Carling Knockout, but beat Polokwane City in a drastically different fashion.

Polokwane City forced extra-time, drawing level with a penalty in the 88th minute. Durban City, clearly intent on avoiding a penalty shootout, piled on three goals in extra-time to seal the fixture.

In their most recent result, the Citizens fell 1-0 to another KZN side, AmaZulu, in their return from the international break.

WHAT WAS SAID

Speaking after his side’s first round win over Chippa United, Richards Bay head coach Ronnie Gabriel said the youngsters in his side are adapting well, aiding the club in putting good performances together.

“Our first three league games, we didn’t get positive results, but we continued to believe in the group and the blueprint of the club, which is giving youngsters a chance,” said Gabriel.

“We have to remain humble because if you score four goals in a game, youngsters can easily feel like they’ve arrived and think they’ve achieved it all.

“So, we have to keep giving them those psychological lessons. All our players come from our development structures, so we have to remind them that the work is on the pitch,” he said.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Richards Bay - Knox Mutizwa has made an impact since taking to the field this season. The forward has netted three goals in two appearances this season and will be looking to add to his tally against Richards Bay’s provincial rival.

Durban City - Letsie Koapeng has bagged three goals in eight league games for the top-flight newcomers and will be looking to make his mark on the Carling Knockout. The centre-forward will certainly not make life easy for the Richards Bay defence.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

This will be the first competitive meeting between Richards Bay and Durban City.

Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker felt his side were destined to turn around their poor record against Kaizer Chiefs and says their progress to the Carling Knockout quarterfinal can lift up their poor league form.

Stellenbosch had lost their four previous clashes to Chiefs, including their opening game of the Betway Premiership in August at home.

But on Sunday, they edged AmaKhosi on post-match penalties after extra time in their first-round tie to put an end to their poor run of form against them.

“I'm never one that holds grudges or looks to beat any team because of past results, but I had a strong sense, and the message was to the players that this is an opportunity for some redemption,” Barker explained.

“You know we've had close calls. We've had red cards go against us, and tight games and having lost to them three times last season, and you know, already this season.

“It was important for us not to go and lose a fifth game on the trot against them. So the message was, you know, it's our opportunity to, first of all, win a game so we can get into the last eight as the main objective, and the second objective was to try and keep 11 players on the pitch for as long as possible, which we did until the last bit of the game,” he added.

“But it was an important win for us against a team that's basically been beating us too regularly for our own liking.”

A night to remember ✨️#HeartoftheCape #MoreThanFootball #StellenboschFC 🍇 pic.twitter.com/jygMEV3Bmb

— Stellenbosch FC (@StellenboschFC) October 5, 2025

Barker said Sunday’s clash at the Cape Town Stadium was attritional.

“I think both teams didn't create massively big chances to score the goal, and maybe just one goal would have been enough to win it for either team. So it just ended up being a game of just staying in the game for as long as possible and not conceding and hopefully being able to create a moment at some stage to seal the game. I think from our side, we tried everything.

“Our substitutions showed that we wanted to win the football game. I think it was important for the club, important for the players, just to find a way to win a single match, regardless of how it was won.

“I think the effort the players put in, the commitment, the unity, the togetherness that they showed out there, is exactly what we need to continue to do. You know, we do things our way, the Stellenbosch way.

“We're a team that's difficult to play against, hard to beat, and I think we demonstrated that. I still think in terms of progress, we need to just find ways to create better, clearer opportunities to threaten the opposition goal more, but just really proud of the effort that the players put into the 120 minutes,” Barker concluded.

 

The first round of the 2025 Carling Knockout saw Gauteng giants Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs bow out, but their rivals, Orlando Pirates, progressed to the next stage.

Washington Arubi was the hero during a penalty shootout as Marumo Gallants claimed a 7-6 win over four-time Carling Knockout winners, Sundowns, following a 0-0 draw in Pretoria on Saturday.

In Soweto, Pirates needed a stoppage-time winner by Mbekezeli Mbokazi to overcome a stubborn Siwelele FC side and the Buccaneers' bid to win a second Carling Knockout title is on track.

The action started on Friday with Fezile Gcaba grabbing a hat-trick to propel Duban City to a 4-1 victory over Polokwane City, as the defender impressed with his goalscoring abilities in eThekwini.

On Saturday, Golden Arrows showed character as they fought back to secure a 3-1 victory over Sekhukhune United, who had opened the scoring through their star striker Bradley Grobler in Durban.

 

In Rustenburg, new signing Mehdi Ouamri was the hero as 2023 Carling Knockout runners-up TS Galaxy claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory over tournament debutants Orbit College.

The action continued on Sunday with Sage Stephens saving two spot-kicks to inspire Stellenbosch FC to a 5-4 win over record winners Kaizer Chiefs on penalties following a 0-0 draw in Cape Town.

Lastly, Richards Bay secured an impressive 4-1 victory over coach Luc Eymael's Chippa United in Richards Bay and defending champions Magesi FC edged out AmaZulu FC 3-2 in Durban.

Round of 16 results

Durban City 4-1 Polokwane City

Orlando Pirates 1-0 Siwelele FC

Orbit College 0-1 TS Galaxy

Golden Arrows 3-1 Sekhukhune United

Mamelodi Sundowns 0-0 Marumo Gallants [Gallants won 7-6 on penalties]

Richards Bay 4-1 Chippa United

Stellenbosch FC 0-0 Kaizer Chiefs [Stellenbosch won 5-4 on penalties]

AmaZulu 2-3 Magesi FC

Quarterfinal fixtures

Orlando Pirates v Magesi

Richards Bay v Durban City

Marumo Gallants v Stellenbosch

Golden Arrows v TS Galaxy

Magesi FC edged out AmaZulu FC 3-2 to keep their defence of the Carling Knockout title on track in the Round of 16 match played at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday evening.

The narrow win saw Dikwena Tsa Meetse advance to the quarterfinals for the second year running. Coach John Maduka's side will be in action after the Fifa break as they host TS Galaxy in the Betway Premiership clash on October 18.

Usuthu, on the other hand, crashed out of the league cup and they will now focus on the Betway Premiership. Arthur Zwane and his charges will prepare for their KZN Derby clash against Durban City which is scheduled for October 18.

Dikwena Tsa Meetse got off to a bright start and they broke the deadlock four minutes before the half-hour mark as Kgomotso Mosadi hit the back of the net to make it 1-0 to Magesi following a good move by the visitors.

Magesi continued to launch attacks and they doubled their lead in the 33rd minute. This time it was Abby Seseane who found the back of the net and Magesi were enjoying a 2-0 lead during the halftime break in Durban.

Usuthu came back as an improved side - exerting pressure on the Dikwena Tsa Meetse defence. Athini Maqokolo was able to grab a goal on his full debut for AmaZulu to make it 2-1 four minutes before the hour mark.

The defending #CarlingKnockout champions are onto the quarter-finals 🏆🔥#SSDiski pic.twitter.com/1UkHupldc4

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 5, 2025

The comeback was complete in the 71st minute when Mondli Mbanjwa beat goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze to make it 2-2, much to the delight of the home crowd inside the 2010 Fifa World Cup venue.

It was then end-to-end stuff in the latter stages of the match as both teams searched for a late winning goal. Thabiso Kutumela netted an unfortunate own-goal to hand Magesi a 3-2 victory over AmaZulu in stoppage time.

AmaZulu (0) 2 (Maqokolo 56', Mbanjwa 71')

Magesi (2) 3 (Mosadi 26', Seseane 33', Kutumela 90'+1)

AmaZulu: Johnson, Allan, Mthethwa, Fielies, Hanamub, Mbanjwa, Sithole (Thabede 46'), Radebe (Ngcobo 46'), Maqokolo (Mzobe 68'), Ekstein, Ngwenya (Kutumela 46')

Magesi: Chipezeze, Matima, Mokone J. M. (Muvhango 75'), Mokone L., Abrahams, Mtshali, Seseane (Darpoh 63'), Zungu (Sibanyoni 76'), Makhubu, Mashigo, Mosadi.

The real story of the weekend wasn’t just Kaizer Chiefs’ Carling Knockout exit—it was goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari’s refusal to be substituted in the final moments of extra time of their Carling Knockout loss to Stellenbosch in Cape Town on Sunday.

The Rwanda international refused to come off in the last minute of extra time when his coaches Khaled Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze wanted to bring on Bruce Bvuma for the expected penalty shootout. The matter will now be handled internally, according to the coaching staff. 

Ntwari defiantly waved them away and Chiefs were unable to make the change before the final whistle.

Ntwari saved the first kick of the shootout from Andre de Jong but none of the resultant five kicks as Stellenbosch came from behind in the shootout to win 5-4 on kicks and advance to quarterfinal.

“I believe in those kinds of situations, it's something that we're going to handle internally, but, you know, he felt that he was comfortable to go on for the penalties and help the team,” Kaze said after the match.

“He was coming from a good intention. Maybe the way wasn't as good as it should be, but it's something that we will address,” he added.

Chiefs and Stellenbosch were goalless after two hours of football although the home side had Thapelo Mokobodi sent off with some 15 minutes left.

With the tie headed to post match spot kicks, Chiefs brought on Tashreeq Morris and Aiden McCarthy. McCarthy was substituted in with a minute left to take a penalty in place of Sibongiseni Mthethwa, who was initially ignored the board that went up with his number, turning his back on his bench as he also wanted to stay on.

I’ll never understand why coaches want to bring on substitutes so late in a game when they’re mentally not in active game mode. I’ve seen this before all over the world and don’t agree with it. Chiefs should have won this one during the 120 minutes. Ox was outstanding. Sage…

— Mike Makaab (@MikeMakaab) October 5, 2025

But after a minute he then reluctantly came off, allowing McCarthy to come. The youthful defender scored in the shootout but Tashreeq Morris, who was also brought on for the shootout, had his kick saved. Had he converted, Chiefs would have won but after Sage Stephens saved from Morris, the veteran goalkeeper then saved the next kick from Dillon Solomons to hand Stellenbosch success.

“I'm pretty sure that we were the better team for the 90 minutes and the extra time. We got the opportunities to go ahead,” Kaze insisted.

“We had shots, there was a good performance from the forwards, and they did everything they could. Unfortunately, we had even a chance to finish the penalties on but we missed it. It’s football and we have to go take a rest because it's been a very tough two weeks and regroup and for the next fixtures,” he added.

Penalties were needed to separate Stellenbosch and Kaizer Chiefs at the DHL Stadium in the Carling Knockout Cup on Sunday evening, as the Cape Winelands side triumphed with a 5-4 score from the spot (0-0 after extra time).

While Andre De Jong missed Stellenbosch’s initial penalty, two missed attempts by Tashreeq Morris and Dillan Solomons saw Chiefs bow out of the competition in Cape Town.

Following a lengthy delay at the DHL Stadium, the game commenced at a frantic pace with the possession count shared equally during the first 10 minutes.

Amakhosi created the first notable scoring chance of the match in the 14th minute following a quick break into the Stellies half. With Khanyisa Mayo picking up the ball toward the edge of the box, the Chiefs attacker let off a venomous left footed strike that hit the upright.

Stellenbosch looked dangerous on the break and often took the game to Chiefs, particularly at the midway point of the first-half. However, the Soweto giants sat tight and warded off the Stellies pressure at the time.

While Stellenbosch saw most of the ball for the majority of the first 45, it was Chiefs who created more scoring opportunities en-route to goal. Nevertheless, the referee called time on the first-half with the score remaining at 0-0.

Stellies book a ticket to the #CarlingKnockout quarter-final 👏#SSDiski pic.twitter.com/UinBlH21aq

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 5, 2025

Chiefs were afforded one of the first attempts after the restart after Mayo had an initial attempt saved, while Pule Mmodi’s close range header was blocked soon thereafter.

The game continued to be a tense affair at the hour-mark while the visitors applied pressure high up the pitch. Stellenbosch had positive moments going forward but were often stifled at the last moment.

Chiefs put the home team under immense pressure leading up to the 80th minute mark but had nothing to show for their attacking impetus.

The game eventually headed into extra-time following a 0-0 score in regulation time. With another gruelling 30 minutes of football set to be played at the Cape Town Stadium, both sides battled to convert their scoring chances. Also, Stellenbosch were reduced to 10 men late on in the game, after Thapelo Mokobodi received his marching orders.

Nevertheless, the game was forced into a penalty shootout as the Cape Winelands side claimed a 5-4 win from the spot in the Mother City.

Stellenbosch FC: 0

Kaizer Chiefs: 0

After extra time; Stellenbosch won 5-4 on penalties.

Stellenbosch FC: Oscarine (Stephens 61’), Manafov (Mdaka 90’), Moloisane, Mcaba, Mokobodi, Khiba (De Jong 72’), Mthiyane, Lekoloane (Cupido 46’), Palace, Titus (Mojela 105’), Khanyi (Barns 61’)

Kaizer Chiefs: Ntwari, Cross, Miguel, Macheke, Solomons, Mthethwa (McCarthy 121’), Ngcobo (Cele 46’) Mmodi, Shabalala (Sirino 88’), Lilepo (Morris 119’), Mayo (Du Preez 79’)

 

Knox Mutizwa hit a brace of goals to inspire Richards Bay to a 4-1 triumph over Chippa United in a Carling Knockout round of 16 clash at the uMhlathuze Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

The Natal Rich Boyz joined Marumo Gallants, Golden Arrows, TS Galaxy, Orlando Pirates and Durban City in the quarterfinal draw, which will be completed with Stellenbosch FC or Kaizer Chiefs, as well as AmaZulu FC or Magesi FC.

Four of the five goals were scored in an entertaining first-half in which the hosts took full advantage of Chippa’s slipshod defending, while the second stanza saw Bay happy to sit on their lead and hit on the counter – eventually adding a cherry on top via substitute Lundi Mahala in injury time.

Bay got off to a flying start and claimed the lead in the fourth minute, as Siyabonga Nzama’s shot was blocked by Seun Ndlovu, but fell perfectly for Ntlonelo Bomelo, who easily finished from close range for 1-0.

And in the seventh minute it was 2-0 to the Natal Rich Boyz, as Knox Mutizwa got on the end of Wandile Ngema’s in-swinging corner kick from the left flank and directed a header beyond the reach of goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

The Chilli Boys were stunned by their opponent’s fast start, but gradually gained a foothold in the game and pulled a goal back in the 26th minute when Bienvenu Eva Nga fired in a low cross from the right and Azola Tshobeni stabbed home from close range.

 

The Eastern Cape side were looking to build another spell of pressure, but a loss of possession in midfield allowed Bomelo to spring free down the left and tee up Mutizwa, who easily finished past Nwabali in the 37th minute to restore Bay’s two-goal advantage.

Three goals to one down at the break, Chippa opted for a double change at the start of the second half which saw Bandile Dlamini and Thabang Molaoa thrown into the fray, and they created a couple of notable openings – including a header on target for Justice Figuareido which was comfortable saved by Ian Otieno.

That was the only real key involvement for Otieno through the second half, with the hosts able to keep the Chilli Boys’ attempts at a comeback at bay – and they stretched the lead out to 4-1 four minutes into injury time when Mahala race free down the left of the penalty area and provided a right-footed finish past Nwabali at the near post.

The teams will return to league action after the international break, with Bay at home to Orbit College on Friday 17 October, and Chippa away to Marumo Gallants on Sunday 19 October.

Richards Bay (3) 4 (Bomelo 4’, Mutizwa 7’ 37’, Mahala 90+4’)

Chippa United (1) 1 (Tshobeni 26’)

Bay: Otieno, Mabuya, Zuke, Mcineka, Mangolo (Mtungwa 46’), Mthethwa, Ngema (Thikazi 62’), Mthembu, Bomelo (Mahala 79’), Nzama (Khumalo 90+1’), Mutizwa (Mtshali 79’)

Chippa: Nwabali, Kammies, Ndlovu (Dlamini 46’), Idumba, Modise, Figuareido, Mosele, Konqobe (Ntsundwana 68’), Philander (Molaoa 46’), Tshobeni (Mfecane 83’), Eva Nga (Hlophe 83’)

Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou said Orlando Pirates’ winning streak is because of character and hard work as he once again lavished praise on his players after they beat Siwelele in the Carling Knockout on Saturday.

A wonder strike three minutes from time from 20-year-old captain Mbekezeli Mbokazi saw Pirates win 1-0 to book a place in the quarterfinals.

It was an eighth successive victory for the Buccaneers, who were bundled out in the first round of the Carling Knockout last season by eventual winners Magesi.

“My team and I were expecting a very tough game. I had listened to their coach (Lehlohonolo Seema) in the (pre-match) press conference, and he said that he would come for results,” said Ouaddou of Saturday’s clash at the Orlando Stadium.

“So I guessed that he would come with a medium block, low block. We worked on that but it was not easy. I said that the game would be won by small details. And it came from a central defender, a fantastic shot from maybe 30-40 yards. I'm very proud of my boys.

“They showed again great personality, great character. It's not only luck, it's daily work, it's belief, it's quality, trust between them, trust with the technical staff and just I'd like to congratulate my staff and my players for this game.”

Ouaddou said he knew of Mbokazi’s ability from long range, after he cracked home the winner with his left foot.

“I'm not surprised because he has a very, very strong shot. He’s shown it many times in training. He took the decision to shoot from 30-40 yards. He’s a guy who believes in himself.

“You cannot shoot from 40 yards when you don't trust yourself, when you don't believe in yourself, and when you don't believe in your qualities. It's really a goal that delivered for all the team, gives happiness to all the players and the fans as well.

“You can see that the danger can come from everywhere now in our team. It's not only the strikers, the midfielders, the weapons can come from everywhere,” added Ouaddou.

 

Siwelele coach Lehlohonolo Seema felt his team gave Orlando Pirates a torrid afternoon but there was nothing they could do about the wonder winner from Mbekezeli Mbokazi that gave the Buccaneers a last-gasp victory in Saturday’s Carling Knockout first-round tie.

“Congratulations to Mbokazi, I think it took the special goal to break us down,” said Seema after the one-goal loss at the Orlando Stadium with Mbokazi striking home from distance in the 87th minute.

But Seema felt his side had done well in the contest.

“I think technically we applied ourselves very well, although we started a little bit badly, conceding an early penalty because I think a lot of players were still trying to settle, and the nerves were still there. That's not how you start the game, especially when you're playing Pirates.”

Keabetswe Khonyane gave away the third-minute penalty but Evidence Makgopa struck the kick against the upright.

“After that, we knew that the longer the game goes on, we would be fine because we had our game plan. I must say to the players that they were spot on because Pirates changed their system with (Tshepang) Moremi playing inside. We had to adjust quickly, because with him playing inside, he plays a different dimension, but we managed to deal with that,” said Seema.

“We are not happy as well that we are out of the Cup. This means that we don't have an extra game that we can play, but it gives us another opportunity to go and prepare for the next week or two.

“You saw that there's a fight. We are really, really working hard and this team is taking shape. There's light in the tunnel, and this team is showing steady progress and is stepping in the right direction,” the Siwelele coach added.

 Marumo Gallants claimed their first ever victory over Mamelodi Sundowns, winning 7-6 on penalties after a goalless 120 minutes of football in their Carling Knockout encounter at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville on Saturday.

Sundowns fell on penalties for the second time this season after losing to Orlando Pirates in a shootout in the MTN8 semifinals at the same venue.

Gallants remain unbeaten against Sundowns this season after beating the club for the first time, having drawn 1-1 with the Brazilian in their Betway Premiership encounter on 17 September.

It was a Saturday to remember in the #CarlingKnockout 🤩🏆#SSDiski | #SSFootball pic.twitter.com/O9NgS0Um53

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 4, 2025

New Sundowns signing from Portugal Miguel Reisinho had a debut to forget as he lasted just six minutes on the pitch after being subbed on, earning a red card.

Gallants had debutants of their own as 19-year-old Ivorian Agnikoi Eroine and his countryman Ibrahim Bancé both played their first game for Bahlabane ba Ntwa.

Tashreeq Matthews started hot for Sundowns, squaring himself and shooting from just beyond the area in the 11th minute, but he could not find the target.

Aubrey Modiba’s cross at the byline in the 17th minute caused chaos in the Gallants box. The ball eventually fell for Nuno Santos, whose shot was blocked by a wall of Galants defenders.

Matthews cut onto his right foot at the edge of the area in the 24th minute, but his effort sailed wide.

Mpho Chabatsane took a crack at goal from distance in the 32nd minute. His shot had the power but not the direction and did not trouble Ronwen Williams in goal.

In the 35th minute, Williams played a dangerous long-ball through for Iqraam Rayners. Sekela Sithole attempted to intercept the ball and missed it completely, forcing goalkeeper Washington Arubi to leave the box but he missed the ball as well. Luckily for Gallants, substitute Khumbulani Ncube cleared the ball before Rayners could reach it.

Despite having 70 per cent possession in the first half, Sundowns could not manage a shot on target as Galants proved to be difficult to break down.

Sundowns continued searching for an opener and nearly found one in the 49th minute. Marcelo Allende’s shot was blocked, with the rebound falling for Khuliso Mudau. The right back hastily flashed the ball wide from close range.

Arubi was nearly caught out in the 50th minute as Arthur Sales’ effort was blocked by Ncube, sending the goalkeeper diving the wrong way as the ball bounced just wide.

In the 65th minute, Arubi dived to deny Modiba’s freekick and the rebound fell to Malibongwe Khoza. The 21-year-old failed to grab a second goal in as many games, missing the follow-up.

Rayners found the target with a header in the 68th minute from Allende’s freekick, but was rightly judged to be offside.

Rayners cut inside on the edge of the area and had his effort sent wide by the head of Marvin Sikhosana in the 72nd minute.

Substitute Teboho Mokoena nearly put the hosts ahead in the 81st minute, hitting the crossbar from Allende’s corner, bouncing the ball too hard off the deck and hitting the woodwork.

The Brazilians were reduced to 10 men in the 85th minute as debutant Reisinho received a straight red card for his challenge on Siyabonga Nhlapo.

With neither side able to break the deadlock, the game went to extra time.

In the 96th minute, Modiba was dispossessed by Jaisen Clifford after a heavy touch, who fed fellow substitute Kamohelo Sithole through on goal. However, Sithole could not find the target with Mosa Lebusa draped on him.

With no player able to produce a winner, proceedings moved to a penalty shootout to decide the winner.

Allende took Masandawana’s first attempt and was denied by Arubi’s legs but Williams returned the favour, stopping Clifford’s attempt to put Gallants ahead.

Arubi denied Sundowns second attempt from Fawaaz Basadien, while Simo Luthuli sent Williams the wrong way to score.

All subsequent players converted until Sithole who was stopped by Williams, pulling Sundowns level.

After another six successful penalties, Arubi denied Mosa Lebusa before scoring himself to send last year’s runners-up out of the tournament.

Mamelodi Sundowns 0

Marumo Gallants 0

After extra time, Gallants won 7-6 on penalties

Mamelodi Sundowns: R. Williams, B. Aubaas (T. Mokoena 61’), K. Cupido (M. Lebusa 89’), M. Khoza, A. Modiba, M. Allende, K. Mudau (T. Morena 99’), T. Matthews (F. Basadien 89’), N. Santos, A. Sales (M. Reisinho 79’), I. Rayners (P. Shalulile 89’)

Marumo Gallants: W. Arubi, M. Sikhosana, M. Chabatsane, S. Nhlapo, T. Motloung (D. Msendami 64’), E. Agnikoi, B. Mabuza (S. Luthuli 118’), N. Ndlondlo (J. Clifford 64’), D. James (K. Ncube 35’), S. Sithole (M. Mpambaniso 78’), I. Bancé (K. Sithole 77’)

Golden Arrows staged a second-half comeback as they battled back from behind to beat Sekhukhune United 3-1 in the Carling Knockout round of 16 at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday, October 4.

Babina Noko went into the break a goal to the good after Bradley Grobler opened the scoring on the stroke of halftime, but Jerome Karelse hit back for Manqoba Mngqithi's side on 57 minutes before further goals from Ayabulela Maxwele and Ayanda Jiyane completed the comeback win.

Arrows were keen to keep the momentum going after recording back-to-back wins against Orbit College and Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership, while Sekhukhune looked for an immediate response after suffering their first league defeat of the season at Polokwane City.

The hosts put Eric Tinkler's side under early pressure when Toaster Nsabata was required to make a save in the third minute and the goalkeeper was well positioned to deal with a shot from Nhlanhla Zwane on 12 minutes.

Thakasani Mbanjwa was called into action moments later at the other end to keep out a shot from a free-kick before Grobler forced him into another save on the quarter-mark.

The KZN outfit grew into the game as the first half progressed, but they conceded at the worst possible time when Grobler headed home the opener in the first minute of added time.

Abafana Bes'thende looked for a swift reply after the restart and substitute Thokozani Lukhele failed to hit the target with a shot on 55 minutes, although they didn't have to wait much longer for the equaliser as Karelse got on the end of a free-kick to beat Nsabata.

Maxwele then turned the cup-tie on its head in the 64th minute when he lashed the ball home from Luthando Ndlovu's square pass.

Babina Noko's evening went from bad to worse on 72 minutes as Nsabata fumbled the ball from a corner, giving Jiyane the opportunity to score from close range.

Mbanjwa had to be alert to keep out a header from Grobler with five minutes left on the clock as Arrows saw out the remainder of the game to march on in the Carling Knockout.

Golden Arrows (0) 3 (Karelse 57', Maxwele 64', Jiyane 72')

Sekhukhune United (1) 1 (Grobler 45+1')

Golden Arrows: T. Mbanjwa, K. Phillips (T. Lukhele 46'), A. Jiyane, P. Khumalo (J. Karelse 46'), S. Cele, T. Mantshiyane, A. Maxwele, N. Dlamini, L. Ndlovu (N. Gasa 78'), N. Zwane (I. Cisse 78'), J. Dion.

Sekhukhune United: T. Nsabata, D. Cardoso (R. Maarman 77'), K. Makgalwa, S. Mkhize (K. Tlaka 77'), V. Mncube, S. Mogaila (T. Mashiloane 61'), B. Ndlovu, N. Rammala, M. Thokolo, M. Timm (T. Monare 61'), B. Grobler.

 

TS Galaxy had to dig deep to progress to the Carling Knockout quarterfinals after they edged Orbit College 1-0 after extra time at Olympia Park on Saturday, October 4.

Adnan Beganovic's side had already beaten the Betway Premiership newcomers 3-1 in a top-flight fixture on August 30, but they needed 120 minutes of football to come out on top this time around.

Mehdi Ouamri stepped off the bench to score the winner in the 109th minute as the Rockets cleared the first hurdle of the cup competition for the third year running.

Orbit came into the cup-tie on the back of a 3-0 defeat to Golden Arrows in the Betway Premiership, while Galaxy saw a five-match unbeaten run come to an end with a 2-0 loss at the hands of Orlando Pirates.

The hosts made a bright start when Thuso Moleleki fired wide of the target from Aitsang Batsi's downward header early on, but Galaxy went closer yet moments later with a header from Mlungisi Mbunjana that struck the post.

 The woodwork came to Orbit rescue once again just before the half-hour mark as Puso Dithejane saw his shot come back off the frame of the goal.

Clear-cut chances were few and far between in the second half, with Moleleki coming closest when he steered a header wide at the back post after getting on the end of Monnapule Saleng's cross.

Extra time beckoned and it would be the visitors who dealt the damaging blow in the final 11 minutes as Ouamri popped up with the all-important goal, having been introduced as a substitute in regulation time.

Orbit College 0

TS Galaxy (0) (0) 1 (Ouamri 109')

Orbit College: S. Nkomo, A. Batsi, Y. Madiba, K. Mkhabela, L. Modimoeng (T. Matsemela 90+5'), O. Mokgosi, T. Moleleki (A. Lukhele 114'), T. Nhlapo, M. Saleng, G. Thibedi (N. Ngiba 114'), M. Wagaba (G. Khoto 56').

TS Galaxy: I. Tape, P. Dithejane (J. Dlamini 115'), M. Keita (M. Mgaga 56'), S. Letsoenyo, S. Maduna, S. Mahlambi, M. Mahlangu (I. Salatiel 90+6'), M. Mbunjana (M. Mvelase 90+6'), L. Motaung (P. Fisher 90+9'), J. Zindoga (M. Ouamri 80'), V. Zulu.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi scored a screamer in the dying stages to send Orlando Pirates to the second round of the Carling Knockout as they beat Siwelele 1-0 at the Orlando Stadium in Soweto on Saturday.

Mbokazi extended Pirates unbeaten run to 11 games in all competitions, as the starlet’s legend continues to grow.

Buccaneers coach Abdeslam Ouaddou made only one change to his starting side that defeated TS Galaxy 2-0 on Tuesday, with Oswin Appolis returning to replace Kamogelo Sebelebele in the line-up.

Siwelele made six changes to their side that ended a seven-game winless streak on Sunday, including at goalkeeper, with Samkelo Xuli coming in form Ricardo Goss.

Pirates were awarded a penalty in the third minute as Keabetswe Khonyane brought Evidence Makgopa down in the Siwelele box. The striker missed the opportunity to bag his second penalty goal in as many games, hitting the right-hand upright.

Captain Mbokazi fires Pirates into the next round ☠️🚀#SSDiski | #SSFootball pic.twitter.com/p70WaWEJZJ

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 4, 2025

The Buccaneers had another early opportunity from a set piece in the 11th minute after Makgopa was brought down again, this time on the edge of the area. Tshepang Moremi’s effort, however, could not find the target.

Siwelele had a set-piece chance of their own in the 16th minute. Gape Moralo’s cross found Samir Nurković at the back post, but the striker’s header went narrowly over the bar.

In the 26th minute, Pirates broke on the counter with Oswin Appolis, who found Relebohile Mofokeng down the right side of the pitch. However, the youngster’s cross could not find any of his teammates arriving in the box.

 

Mofokeng’s 35th minute cross went over the head of Xuli, towards Appolis but Makgopa took the ball away from him and the chance came to nothing.

Grant Margeman tried his luck from distance in the 40th minute and had Sipho Chaine scrambling, but the ball went just wide of the left upright.

In the 41st minute, Makgopa spotted the run of Moremi into the box, finding him with a perfectly weighted pass, but the winger’s effort went wide of the target, squandering another great chance to take the lead.

Christian Saile showed his place to beat Mbokazi on the counter in stoppage time and fired a shot from the edge of the area, but Chaine made the save comfortably.

Deon Hotto nearly broke the deadlock before the halftime whistle but his freekick along the ground was stopped by a diving Xuli.

In the 52nd minute, Moremi’s cross was spilt by Xuli, but the goalkeeper managed to recover the ball before any Pirates players could reach it.

The visitors had a chase on the counter attack in the 73rd minute through substitute Chibuike Ohizu, who found himself one-on-one with Mbokazi, but could not beat the defender in the Pirates box.

The Buccaneers began to create more chances in the last quarter of an hour. In the 76th min, Appolis found substitute Kamogelo Sebelebele in the box, but his shot was routinely saved.

Fellow substitute Tshegofatso Mabasa also could not convert from close range in the 78th minute as he could not make proper contact with the ball, resulting in an easy save for Xuli.

Pirates finally broke the deadlock in the 87th minute through the unlikeliest of scorers, as Mbokazi unleashed a rocket from distance, finding the top right corner with a spectacular strike.

Orlando Pirates (0) 1 (Mbokazi 87’)

Siwelele 0

Orlando Pirates: S. Chaine, L. Seema, M. Mbokazi, T. Lebitso, D. Hotto, S. Nduli (A. Mariko 46’), M. Nemtajela, R. Mofokeng (K. Sebelebele 62’), O. Appolis (S. Mbule 79’), T. Moremi, E. Makgopa (T. Mabasa 62’)

Siwelele: S. Xuli, G. Moralo, K. Khonyane (P. Sanoka 66’), Y. Mfolozi, A. Baliti, T. Potsane, T. Makhele, G. Margeman, S. Zwane (V. Pule 63’), C. Saile (G. Lungu 77’), S. Nurković (C. Ohizu 63’)

Durban City marked their debut appearance in the Carling Knockout with an impressive 4-1 victory over Polokwane City after extra-time in the Round of 16 match at the Chatsworth Stadium on Friday night.

Therefore, the KwaZulu-Natal side became the first team to progress to the quarterfinals. Coach Gavin Hunt's charges will be in action after the upcoming Fifa break when they take on their provincial rivals, AmaZulu FC, in the Betway Premiership clash on October 18.

Rise and Shine, on the other hand, bowed out of the South African League Cup. The Limpopo side will turn their attention to the Betway Premiership as they are scheduled to travel to Soweto, where they are set to take on Orlando Pirates on October 21.

Durban City are through to the #CarlingKnockout Quarter-Finals ⚽⏭️#SSDiski | #SSFootball pic.twitter.com/6NinJgSOLS

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 3, 2025

Having grabbed a goal and assist in Durban's win over Magesi FC last weekend, Saziso Magawana was keen to continue his good form and the former Golden Arrows attacker was involved when the deadlock was broken 12 minutes into the match.

Magawana's free-kick was turned home by Fezile Gcaba, who netted his first goal of the season to hand Durban a 1-0 lead..Rise and Shine then pushed for the equalising goal, but the hosts stood firm at the back and Durban were leading 1-0 at halftime.

Gcaba became a villain as he handled the ball in the box after the restart and Polokwane were awarded a late penalty, which was converted by Lebohang Nkaki, who made it 1-1 in the 88th minute and the match went into extra-time after ending in a stalemate in regulation time.

However, the hosts ran rampant as Mfanafuthi Mkhize restored Durban's lead three minutes into extra-time to make it 2-1 before Gcaba grabbed his brace in the 111th minute to make it 3-1 with a beautiful strike which left Rise and Shine stunned.

Eventual Man of the Match Gcaba was not done yet, as the Orlando Pirates product grabbed a well-deserved hat-trick when he hit the back of the net in the 114th minute, sealing Durban City's 4-1 victory over Polokwane on the night.

Durban (1) (1) 4 (Gcaba 12', 111'. 114', Mkhize 93')

Polokwane (0) (1) 1 (Nkaki 89')

Durban City: Keet, Ncanana, Mkhize, Gcaba, Mashego, Jurgens (Poggenpoel 118'), Jodwana (Nodada 118'), Maseko, Mokwena (Goedeman 73'), Magawana (Lubumba 118'), Koapeng (Kamatuka 73')

Polokwane City: Bwire, Matuludi, Nkwe, Nkaki, Nikani (Mathonsi 89'), Kambala, Ramabu, Kelepu (Moremi 46'), Dlamini (Daniels 74'), Tshabalala (Mashiane 46'), Mnguni (Marema 46')

Orlando Pirates have become cup specialists over the past season with four successive MTN8 wins and success in two of the last three Nedbank Cup but the Carling Knockout, in its various guises, has largely been a bogey competition for them down the years.

They have in fact lifted the trophy just once since its inception in 1982, and lost a further eight finals.

Over the last two seasons they were ousted by underdogs, which is something of an omen for Saturday’s clash against struggling Siwelele at the Orlando Stadium.

🚨#𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐊𝐧𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐚𝐥𝐞 🚨

Tickets for the Round of 16 matches in the Carling Knockout are on sale at Open Tickets online and nationwide for R60.

🎟️: https://t.co/uph7nsuqBG pic.twitter.com/pNNbZQl8gy

— Official PSL (@OfficialPSL) September 30, 2025

Richards Bay eliminated them in a shock result in the 2023 quarter-final, winning on post-match penalties, while Magesi dumped them out in the first round last season with a sensational 3-2 upset in Soweto, leading 3-0 at half-time before Pirates attempted a late comeback.

It was the first time Pirates had lost a game outright in the competition since 2016 (W6 D4), going out on penalties on the last four occasions they have exited, and on five of the last six.

In fact, since 2010 they have lost 11 ties and seven of those have been via spot-kicks. They have not won a single shoot-out in that time.

Their overall competition record is dismally poor for a club who have done well in the other knockout competitions.

That single victory came in 2011 when they beat BidVest Wits 3-1 in the final thanks to goals from Thulasizwe Mbuyane, Daine Klate and Isaac Chansa.

But for the rest there has been little cheer, despite their numerous final appearances.

They lost to Bush Bucks in 1987, then to Mamelodi Sundowns in 1990. It took five years to return to the final and this time it was Wits who beat them 1-0.

They were then stunned by a young Ajax Cape Town 4-1 in a replay of the 2000 decider, and lost to Ajax again in 2008 and bitter rivals Kaizer Chiefs in 2010.

There was some respite with that 2011 success, but normal service resumed after that with shock final losses to Platinum Stars (2013) and Baroka (2018).

There is no real explanation why their conversion rate is so poor, they have a strong record in MTN8 and Nedbank Cup finals.

In all, Pirates have played 79 games in the League Cup since 1996/97, winning 41, drawing 20 and losing 18. They have scored 127 goals and conceded 83.

ORLANDO PIRATES RECORD IN PSL ERA

Tournament finishes

2024/25: First Round

2023/24: Quarterfinals

2019/20: Quarterfinals

2018/19: Final

2017/18: Quarterfinals

2016/17: Semifinals

2015/16: Semifinals

2014/15: Semifinals

2013/14: Final

2012/13: Quarterfinals

2011/12: Winners

2010/11: Final

2009/10: Semifinals

2008/09: Final

2007/08: First Round

2006/07: Quarterfinals

2005/06: Semifinals

2004/05: First Round

2003/04: First Round

2002/03: First Round

2001/02: First Round

2000/01: Final

1999/00: Semifinals

1998/99: Semifinals

1997/98: Semifinals

1996/97: Quarterfinals

As one of the marquee fixtures in the Carling Knockout Cup this coming weekend, Stellenbosch FC will host Kaizer Chiefs in an exciting first-round clash at the Cape Town Stadium on Sunday.

Kick-off is at 3pm (CAT, GMT+2).

CURRENT FORM

The Cape Winelands side were crowned the inaugural champions of the Carling Knockout Cup in 2023 and will once again hope to draw inspiration from their 5-4 win on penalties against TS Galaxy in the final that year.

As far as their current form sheet is concerned, Stellies bagged a 0-0 draw with Chippa United in the Betway Premiership last time out. Stellenbosch have won just one out of nine league games this season and currently occupy a lowly 14th place on the table.

Amakhosi have likewise struggled to yield positive results of late, particularly after their frustrating 1-1 draw with AmaZulu at the FNB Stadium on Wednesday night.

With just one win in their last five Betway Premiership assignments, Chiefs sit in fifth place after their matchday eight obligation.

WHAT WAS SAID

Speaking after his side’s stalemate with the Chilli Boys, Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker expressed that the Western Cape outfit lacked cutting edge in the final third.

“There is a little bit of confidence and lack of belief,” Barker said.

“We came here to get three points and tried to be as positive as possible, playing the players we believed could score. It was not through a lack of effort that we didn’t. I believe we created slightly the better chances, but we just lacked the final finish that we need right now.”

Kaizer Chiefs interim co-head coach Khalil Ben Youssef is of the thought that the Glamour Boys need to fine tune the attacking department after their draw with Usuthu this week.

“I said before we are struggling in the last third. Sometimes we have been unlucky and sometimes we miss chances,” Ben Youssef said.

“We have to work and keep going to find a solution. The next game is Stellenbosch [in the last 16 of the Carling Knockout]. Then we have two weeks [the international break] to fix everything.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Stellenbosch: Andre de Jong – Once again a regular under Barker this season, the New Zealander will look to disrupt the Chiefs backline with his clever movement on the edge of the 18-yard-area.

Kaizer Chiefs: Mduduzi Shabalala – After getting his name on the scoresheet against AmaZulu, Shabalala heads into the next game with a much-needed confidence booster. As an ever-present figure in the Amakhosi front line, Shabalala could hurt Stellenbosch with his pace and trickery.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

Previous Cup meetings

2016/17 Nedbank Cup last 32 - Stellenbosch 0-3 Kaizer Chiefs

2017/18 Nedbank Cup last 16 - Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 Stellenbosch

2022/23 MTN8 quarterfinal - Stellenbosch 1-1* Kaizer Chiefs (* Chiefs won on penalties)

2024/25 Nedbank Cup quarterfinal - Stellenbosch 1-3 Kaizer Chiefs

Last five league results

2023/24 Stellenbosch 0-2 Kaizer Chiefs

2023/24 Kaizer Chiefs 0-1 Stellenbosch

2024/25 Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 Stellenbosch

2024/25 Stellenbosch 0-1 Kaizer Chiefs

2025/26 Stellenbosch 0-2 Kaizer Chiefs

AmaZulu FC will battle it out with defending champions Magesi FC in the Carling Knockout Round of 16 match set to be played at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday.

Kick-off is at 3pm CAT.

CURRENT FORM

Usuthu are winless in their last two matches after letting a lead slip in their 1-1 draw with Kaizer Chiefs away on Wednesday, having lost to TS Galaxy in the Betway Premiership on September 24.

AmaZulu were crowned Carling Knockout champions in 1992 when the competition was known as the Coca Cola Cup at the time and they are now looking to end their 33-year trophy drought.

Meanwhile, Magesi are also winless in two matches, having succumbed to a 3-1 defeat to Durban City away on 27 September, making it back-to-back defeats following a loss to Richards Bay on 24 September.

Dikwena Tsa Meetse had a fairytale run in last season's Carling Knockout as they clinched their maiden major trophy, and they are now on a mission to become the first team to win back-to-back trophies since Kaizer Chiefs did so in 2009 and 2010.

TEAM NEWS

AmaZulu will be without the services of Siyanda Hlangabeza, who remains suspended after missing the game against Chiefs, while his teammates Ben Motshwari, Bongani Zungu and Elmo Kambindu are currently injured.

Magesi, on the other hand, have no suspension concerns coming into this cup encounter and the Limpopo side are yet to report new injuries in their camp.

WHAT WAS SAID?

AmaZulu FC midfielder Bongani Zungu

“I think it’s the hunger [that’s needed], this season they brought in young players with a lot of hunger to succeed. That has been evident in the league cause we have been doing pretty much well and it’s exciting times for the club," Zungu said.

“Competitions like this (Carling Knockout) are a chance for the club to grab some silverware. We are excited about the season, and we will continue to give every team we play against problems cause we have proven this season that we can play against anyone.

“We create chances which was the problem, but the guys are improving upfront, and the team is gelling very well. We’re looking forward to playing well and trying our best to have a great season.”

Magesi FC head coach John Maduka

"This is a cup game. It can give us confidence going into the league matches if we do well here. There are many games where we've been unlucky in the league, where we ended up losing them after showing good performances," Maduka said.

"So, this can help us and the players can start believing in themselves that they can win matches. If we win the match against AmaZulu, it will give us the confidence we need to start getting the points we require in the league games.

"If we want to retain this trophy, we have to work hard, starting against AmaZulu. It is not going to be an easy road because when you are the defending champions, everyone wants to beat you. This one is going to be difficult."

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya, AmaZulu FC: The in-form marksman is one player who has what it takes to propel Usuthu to the quarterfinals, having found the back of the net in back-to-back matches to take his tally to four goals this season.

Elvis Chipezeze, Magesi FC: The Zimbabwe international is one of the reasons why Dikwena Tsa Meetse won the Carling Knockout last season, as he produced eye-catching displays and the goalkeeper remains a key player for the team.

HEAD-TO-HEAD (since 2016/17)

PREVIOUS CUP MEETINGS

N/A – This will be the first cup meeting of AmaZulu FC and Magesi FC

CUP RECORD

N/A – This will be the first cup meeting of AmaZulu FC and Magesi FC

ALL LEAGUE RESULTS

Season Result Scorers

2016/17 (NFD) Magesi 3-2 AmaZulu N/A

2016/17 (NFD) AmaZulu 3-0 Magesi N/A

2024/25 Magesi 0-1 AmaZulu Zungu

2024/25 AmaZulu 3-0 Magesi Radebe, Moremi, Sithole

2025/26 Magesi 1-1 AmaZulu J. Mokone; Ngwenya

OVERALL RECORD (all competitions)

Total

P W D L GF GA

AmaZulu 5 3 1 1 10 4

Magesi 5 1 1 3 4 10

The first round of the 2025 Carling Knockout will see the PSL's Big Three, Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns battle for the quarterfinal spots. Catch all the action live on SuperSport.

Record 13-time winners, Chiefs, will travel to the world-class DHL Cape Town Stadium, where they are scheduled to face 2023 champions Stellenbosch FC on Sunday.

Amakhosi are bidding to win this tournament for the first time since 2010, having ended their 10-year trophy drought by winning last season's Nedbank Cup.

However, this is the tournament that has proved elusive for Chiefs' arch-rivals, Orlando Pirates, who are set to host Siwelele FC at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday.

The Buccaneers have won the South African league cup once, having clinched it in 2011 when it was known as the Telkom Knockout at the time, and this was part of Bucs' record-breaking double-treble success.

Meanwhile, Sundowns, who are four-time winners, will also bank on home ground advantage as they welcome Marumo Gallants at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday.

The action will start on Friday with Polokwane City travelling to KwaZulu-Natal, where they are expected to take on the Betway Premiership's surprise package, Durban City, at the Chatsworth Stadium.

The last game of the weekend will be between the 1992 winners, AmaZulu FC, and the defending champions, Magesi FC, at the 2010 FIFA World Cup venue, Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Carling Knockout Round of 16 fixtures

Kick-off times in CAT

Friday, 3 October

19h00 - Durban City v Polokwane City

Saturday, 4 October

15h00 - Orlando Pirates v Siwelele FC

15h00 - Orbit College v TS Galaxy

18h00 - Golden Arrows v Sekhukhune United

20h00 - Mamelodi Sundowns v Gallants

Sunday, 5 October

15h00 - Richards Bay v Chippa United

15h00 - Stellenbosch FC v Kaizer Chiefs

18h00 - AmaZulu FC v Magesi FC

Richards Bay coach Ronnie Gabriel is hoping his side can put together a decent cup run in the Carling Knockout, starting with a home game against Chippa United on Sunday.

The match is at home at the uMhlathuze Complex against a team that Richards Bay have already beaten at home this season, in late August in a game played in KwaMashu in Durban.

“We'll go and play in front of our home support and we like to win all our games at home. So automatically that should take us into the next round and then we'll see where it takes us from there,” said Gabriel.

“But ideally, it'll be good to have a good cup run as well to boost the confidence in a squad, give other players a chance as well in these cup games to express themselves and show us what they are made of as well. A good cup run will always be good for the team,” the coach added.

 

Ayeye! The #CarlingKnockout Round of 16 tickets are out NOW! ⚽🏆Shay’ ijika at your nearest Shoprite, U-Save, Checkers & Open Ticket. K’sezoba lit 🔥🏟️

Using #CarlingKnockout QT what else would you like to get after getting tickets at Shoprite, ngikuphathise yona in the DMs! 🍺 pic.twitter.com/PtuZQ6lXXG

— Carling Black Label ᅠᅠᅠᅠ (@blacklabelsa) September 30, 2025

 

Richards Bay reached the Carling Knockout semifinals over the last two seasons but lost both games at home.

They were beaten 3-0 by Stellenbosch in the 2023 semifinal at Umlazi and last season were elimninated 1-0 by Magesi at the same venue.

“I feel that we've got the quality and we've got a team to match all these opponents on the day. I think we've shown it previously. We've shown it last season. We've shown it this season in the last five games, the unbeaten run that we went on (before Mamelodi Sundowns beat them last weekend).

“The teams are all beatable in this league and anyone can beat anyone on the day. So we believe that any encounter that we go, there are possibilities that we could get a result. So we are positive,” added Gabriel.

 

📅 𝗢𝗖𝗧𝗢𝗕𝗘𝗥 𝗙𝗜𝗫𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘𝗦 🔵⚪️🕯🙏

⚽ 5 OCT – @ChippaUnitedFC (H)
⚽ 17 OCT – Orbit College FC (H)

See you at the Stadium!#NatalRichBoyZ pic.twitter.com/e7mbULsvnP

— Richards Bay FC (@RichardsBayFC_) October 1, 2025

 

Following the successful launch of the 2025/26 Carling Knockout and the official round of 16 draw held earlier this week, the Premier Soccer League (PSL) has confirmed the full schedule of fixtures for the opening round of the competition.

The Round of 16 will take place over the weekend of 3 to 5 October 2025, with eight exciting matches scheduled across the country as teams compete for a place in the quarterfinals.

Carling Knockout debutants Durban City FC will get proceedings underway on Friday, 3 October, when they host Polokwane City at Chatsworth Stadium. Kick-off is set for 19h00.

The action continues on Saturday, 4 October, with a full day of fixtures. The schedule kicks off at 15h00 with two simultaneous clashes: Orlando Pirates will welcome Siwelele FC to Orlando Stadium, while Orbit College FC take on TS Galaxy FC at Olympia Park Stadium. In the evening, Lamontville Golden Arrows will face Sekhukhune United at King Zwelithini Stadium at 18h00, followed by a highly anticipated showdown between Mamelodi Sundowns and Marumo Gallants at Lucas Moripe Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 20h00.

The weekend’s action concludes on Sunday, 5 October, with three more thrilling encounters. At 15h00, Richards Bay FC go up against Chippa United at Umhlathuze Sports Stadium, while Stellenbosch FC and Kaizer Chiefs renew their rivalry at DHL Stadium. The round of 16 will conclude with AmaZulu FC taking on defending champions Magesi FC at Moses Mabhida Stadium. Kick-off is set for 17h30.