Big guns drawn apart in Nedbank Cup

Traditional “big guns” Mamelodi Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates were kept apart as the draw for the 2023 Nedbank Cup Last 32 was conducted in Johannesburg on Thursday.

It was an open draw – meaning any of the 32 teams could play each other. Sundowns begin their title defence at home to Richards Bay. It will be a repeat of last season’s fixture at the same stage. Sundowns easily won that 4-0 en route to title glory.

Chiefs, who were knocked out in the round of the 32 by TS Galaxy last season, will begin their Nedbank Cup quest with a trip to Maritzburg United, who were also knocked at the first hurdle by SuperSport United.

Amakhosi are the most successful club in this competition with 13 titles but their last victory came in 2013. Pirates are the second most successful with eight titles followed by Sundowns with six and SuperSport United with five.

Pirates will have a relatively easier clash against minnows All Stars. Pirates were knocked out in the round of 16 via penalties by Marumo Gallants and they will be desperate for a change in fortunes this time around.

CONFIRMED:#NedbankCup Last 32 Fixtures

All fixture details to be confirmed in due course. pic.twitter.com/8bLSe7WKqp
— Official PSL (@OfficialPSL) January 12, 2023

Last year’s losing finalists Marumo Gallants got minnows Magesi FC while 2017 winners SuperSport United will face Dondol Stars FC.

All fixtures logistics will be confirmed at a later stage.

“We are excited to kick-off the 16th edition of the Nedbank Cup, a great feat in South African knockout football. The 2023 season provides yet another opportunity for amateur teams to compete with the best in local football and showcase their talent.

“As Nedbank, our aim is to continue supporting the growth and development of local football. To show our commitment, in collaboration with the 2023 Nedbank Cup winners, we will install our 8th multipurpose sport court in a school and community where the winning club is based.

“Our goal for the sport court is to help develop skills and provide a facility that encourages more participation in football and other sport. We’d like to thank our longstanding partners the PSL for their support and efforts in successfully launching the 2023 season. Best of luck to all the teams participating this year,” said Khensani Nobanda, Group Executive, Marketing and Communications at Nedbank.

The successful partnership between Nedbank and the PSL has made it possible for the Nedbank Cup to enter its 16th year and land it the crown of being South Africa’s biggest knockout football competition.

“The Nedbank Cup is known for its inspiring stories and giving a platform for raw talent to flourish, and as the PSL, we are excited about what is in store this season. We would like to thank Nedbank for their continued support which has helped us grow and improve the beautiful game over the past 16 years.

“We are thrilled to welcome the eight clubs from the SAFA divisions who will have a wonderful opportunity to compete against the 24 clubs from the professional ranks. We hope that they will add a new dimension to the competition. We wish all the 32 participating clubs the best of luck,” said PSL Acting CEO, Mato Madlala.

The tournament has given an opportunity to many young stars by pitting them against top professionals and has in some instances seen them overcome their Goliaths.

Nedbank revealed their new exciting Nedbank Cup logo and CI to attendees that will be used for the 2023 season and beyond. Nedbank will also be launching exciting initiatives and activities as part of their Nedbank Cup 2023 season campaign.

NEDBANK CUP ROUND OF 32 DRAW:

SuperSport United v Dondol Stars FC

Lamontville Golden Arrows v Pretoria Callies

Marumo Gallants v Magesi FC

FC Blackcross v Venda Football Academy

Mamelodi Sundowns v Richards Bay FC

Cape Town Spurs v Baroka FC

TS Galaxy v Amavarara FC

Sekhukhune United v Liver Brothers

Stellenbosch FC v Swallows FC

Mpheni Home Defenders v Clarewood FC

Mkhambathi FC v Casric Stars