The 2026 Carling Knockout Cup launch culminated in the Round of 16 draw on Wednesday night, attended by representatives from Carling Black Label, the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and coaches from all 16 participating clubs.
Defending champions Orlando Pirates will face Milford FC, while Kaizer Chiefs take on TS Galaxy. Mamelodi Sundowns have been drawn against Marumo Gallants in a repeat of last season’s opening-round clash.
The remaining fixtures will see Kruger United face AmaZulu, Golden Arrows meet Chippa United, Durban City take on Stellenbosch FC, Polokwane City play Siwelele FC, and Sekhukhune United meet Richards Bay FC.
How the draw worked
All 16 Betway Premiership clubs entered the draw, which used three pots. Pot A contained the eight teams that finished in the top eight of the 2025/26 league season, while Pot C held the remaining eight clubs. Pot B determined home and away designations.
The seeding system paired top-eight finishers with teams from the bottom half, preventing the top eight teams from meeting in the Round of 16.
Newly promoted Milford FC and Kruger United join the competition in place of relegated Magesi FC and Orbit College.
The Round of 16 is scheduled to begin on 24 October, with match dates, venues and kick-off times still to be confirmed by the PSL.
2026 CARLING KNOCKOUT ROUND OF 16 FIXTURES
– Kruger United vs AmaZulu FC
– Mamelodi Sundowns vs Marumo Gallants
– Golden Arrows vs Chippa United
– Durban City vs Stellenbosch FC
– Orlando Pirates vs Milford FC
– Polokwane City vs Siwelele FC
– Sekhukhune United vs Richards Bay FC
– Kaizer Chiefs vs TS Galaxy