The Carling Knockout semi-final draw has delivered two exciting matchups, with Mamelodi Sundowns set to face Kaizer Chiefs while defending champions Orlando Pirates take on Stellenbosch FC.
The Premier Soccer League confirmed the fixtures following Sunday’s live draw, setting up an exciting battle for places in the final.
With four of South African football’s biggest knockout contenders remaining in the competition, supporters can look forward to two potentially thrilling encounters.
Sundowns vs Kaizer Chiefs: A Blockbuster Semi-Final
The standout fixture of the semi-final round will see Mamelodi Sundowns go head-to-head with Kaizer Chiefs.
Amakhosi secured their place in the last four after producing a comeback victory against Siwelele FC at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium. Chiefs won 2-1, with Wandile Duba equalising before substitute Asanele Velebayi scored the decisive goal.
Sundowns, meanwhile, booked their semi-final place with a 1-0 victory over Golden Arrows during the week.
The meeting presents a major challenge for Fernando da Cruz’s Chiefs, who are hoping to move closer to ending their lengthy wait for another major domestic cup trophy.
Miguel Cardoso’s Sundowns will also be eager to reach the final and add another piece of silverware to their collection.
Orlando Pirates Draw Stellenbosch FC
The other semi-final will see Orlando Pirates face Stellenbosch FC in what promises to be a competitive encounter.
The Buccaneers reached the last four after defeating Sekhukhune United 1-0 in their quarter-final clash in Soweto.
Stellenbosch secured their place with a 2-1 victory over AmaZulu FC at the Danie Craven Stadium, showing their ability to compete in high-pressure knockout matches.
Pirates will enter the tie as defending champions and will be determined to keep their title defence on track.
However, Stellenbosch have developed a reputation as difficult opponents in cup competitions and will be confident of challenging the Buccaneers for a place in the final.
Carling Knockout Semi-Final Fixtures
The confirmed draw has produced the following matchups:
- Mamelodi Sundowns vs Kaizer Chiefs
- Orlando Pirates vs Stellenbosch FC
Both matches will be decided over 90 minutes, with the winners progressing directly to the Carling Knockout final.
The PSL is expected to announce the official match dates, venues and kick-off times in due course.
Who Will Reach the Carling Knockout Final?
With Sundowns, Chiefs, Pirates and Stellenbosch all chasing the trophy, the semi-finals promise plenty of drama.
Chiefs have an opportunity to take another step towards ending their domestic cup drought, while Sundowns will be looking to turn their place among the country’s leading teams into another trophy.
Pirates, meanwhile, are determined to defend their crown, but Stellenbosch could prove a difficult obstacle.
Which two teams do you think will reach the Carling Knockout final?
