SAGE STEPHENS would love nothing more than to help Stellenbosch FC reach yet another cup final and, more importantly, defend their Carling Knockout title. To do that, Stellies have to overcome a tricky first hurdle in the form of AmaZulu.
The Cape Winelands team were drawn at home to Usuthu, and their goalkeeper expressed his excitement at the draw, stating that "finals are special."
The #CarlingKnockout draw is complete ✅
— Official PSL (@OfficialPSL) October 8, 2024
Here are the Round of 16 matches 👇
Venues, dates and kick-off times to be announced in due course. pic.twitter.com/Z44kF060QF
He continued, "It is a magnificent event (the Carling Knockout), and we were fortunate enough to do it twice within eight months," referencing their triumph in the Carling Knockout and their subsequent run to the MTN8 final, which they lost to Orlando Pirates in controversial fashion last weekend.
Looking ahead to this new edition, Stephens emphasised the team's commitment to defending their title: "We are looking to defend our title and do the best we can to win. The more finals you make, the easier they become."
Perhaps the most exciting tie of the round is the clash between SuperSport United and Kaizer Chiefs. Matsatsantsa and Amakhosi are also set to meet in the league, and both sides are eager to end their trophy droughts in the Carling Knockout.
As time passes, the stakes become even more critical for teams such as these, as last year’s defeated finalists, TS Galaxy, were drawn to play against Chippa United.
The MTN8 champions, Orlando Pirates, kick off their campaign with a home tie against league newcomers Magesi FC, while league champions Mamelodi Sundowns are set to face Golden Arrows at home.
Carling Knockout Fixtures
SuperSport United v Kaizer Chiefs;; Richards Bay v Sekhukhune United; AmaZulu v Stellenbosch FC; Polokwane City v Marumo Gallants; Cape Town City v Royal AM; TS Galaxy v Chippa United; Orlando Pirates v Magesi FC; Mamelodi Sundowns v Golden Arrows