Orlando Pirates to host champions Magesi FC in Carling Knockout quarter-final clash

The stage is set for an exciting series of matches after the Carling Knockout quarter-final draw took place on Sunday evening.

The draw follows a thrilling Round of 16 that featured intense competition and surprising upsets. Conducted immediately after Magesi’s match against AmaZulu, the draw produced several enticing encounters.

Topping the bill is a marquee tie that sees defending champions Magesi FC pitted against Orlando Pirates — the same side they ousted at this stage last season en route to the 2024 title.

On Saturday, Pirates edged struggling Siwelele FC 1-0 in a tight fixture at Orlando Stadium, snatching victory in the final moments.

Elsewhere, Golden Arrows will host TS Galaxy, while Richards Bay and Durban City FC will contest a gripping all-KwaZulu-Natal clash. Arrows extended their impressive run with a 3-1 home win over Sekhukhune United on Saturday, while on Friday, Durban City FC cruised into the quarter-finals after thumping Polokwane City FC 4-1 in a 120-minute battle at Chatsworth Stadium.

Meanwhile, Stellenbosch FC will travel to face Marumo Gallants in what promises to be another nail-biting contest. One of the shocks of the Round of 16 came at DHL Cape Town Stadium, where the 2023 champions, Stellenbosch, stunned Kaizer Chiefs in a tense penalty shoot-out, winning 5-4 after a goalless draw in regulation and extra time.

The highlight of Saturday, however, belonged to Marumo Gallants, who toppled giants Mamelodi Sundowns in an exhilarating shoot-out that ended 7-6, following another 0-0 stalemate over 120 minutes.

The eagerly anticipated quarter-final fixtures, set to take place at various venues across the country, will be confirmed in due course, leaving fans on the edge of their seats as they await the next chapter of the Carling Knockout saga.