Orlando Pirates will face SuperSport United in the quarter-finals of Nedbank Cup in early March. Photo: Itumeleng English Independent Media
Orlando Pirates' quest for a historic three-peat will continue as they next face Supersport United in the quarterfinals of the Nedbank Cup.
The draw featured six Premier Soccer League clubs, with many anticipating any of Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns, or Kaizer Chiefs to run into each other, but it wasn’t to be.
The PSL continues to be paralyzed by indecision regarding the Royal AM saga. Sekhukhune United and Milford FC remain in limbo, with uncertainty carrying on as everyone concerned continues to wait for the trigger to be pulled, as the quarterfinal fixtures have now been confirmed.
Durban City’s surprise 2-1 win against TS Galaxy did not only ensure a safe passage for them in the next round, but it also confirmed them as the only lower division side left in the competition, tasked with welcoming Marumo Gallants.
Chiefs put out an impressive outing with a 3-0 win over Chippa United, and as they continue their chase to break their trophy drought, they will need to move past Stellenbosch FC away from home. This encounter marks their second meeting in less than a month, following their league clash a couple of weeks ago.
Amakhosi have won this competition a record 13 times, and to take a step closer to their 14th title, they will have to navigate past a resilient Stellies side in their own backyard.
Sundowns last won this competition in 2022, following their 2-0 victory against Mpheni Home Defenders. They will now join in the wait to find out who will be their opponents among the three teams caught up in what is becoming an extensive line of clubs waiting for a decision to be made.
The standout draw saw Matsatsantsa at home against the defending champions, who are chasing a record-equaling third straight title.
Supersport United haven’t enjoyed much success this season, but in this competition, they have managed to find the winning formula. Coming up against an in-form Buccaneers side, this could be their last chance to secure a trophy this season.
The quarter-final fixtures will be played on March 8 and 9, with Dates and venues to be confirmed.
Nedbank Cup quarter-final draw: Mamelodi Sundowns vs Royal AM/Milford/Sekhukhune United; Durban City vs Marumo Gallants; Stellenbosch FC vs Kaizer Chiefs; SuperSport United vs Orlando Pirates