The draw for the 2026 Carling Knockout Round of 16 has delivered several intriguing fixtures, with South African football fans set for a bumper opening round when the competition kicks off later this month.
Now in its fourth edition since Carling Black Label revived the former Telkom Knockout, the tournament has quickly re-established itself as one of the most anticipated events on the domestic football calendar.
Stellenbosch FC etched their name into the history books by lifting the trophy in 2023, securing the club's first major piece of silverware, while Magesi FC stunned the football fraternity a year later to claim their maiden top-flight title.
Defending champions Orlando Pirates will begin their title defence against Milford FC.
The Buccaneers lifted last season's trophy after defeating Marumo Gallants 2-0 in the final on their way to completing a domestic treble.
As tradition dictates, the eventual Carling Knockout champions will earn a place in the Carling Black Label Cup, where they will face a PSL All-Star XI selected through fan voting and featuring both Betway Premiership and DStv Diski Challenge players.
The Round of 16 fixtures are scheduled to get under way from 24 October, with last season's top-eight Betway Premiership finishers seeded for the draw and paired against teams from the bottom half of the standings.
CARLING KNOCKOUT ROUND OF 16 DRAW:
Kruger United v AmaZulu FC
Mamelodi Sundowns v Marumo Gallants
Golden Arrows v Chippa United
Durban City v Stellenbosch FC
Orlando Pirates v Milford FC
Polokwane City v Siwelele FC
Sekhukhune United v Richards Bay FC
Kaizer Chiefs v TS Galaxy