Heavyweights avoid each other as Nedbank Cup last 32 path is set

The road to South African football’s most prestigious knockout glory has been paved following the 2026 Nedbank Cup Last 32 draw, conducted at the Nedbank Cup headquarters in Sandton on Thursday evening.

While the Big Three managed to dodge one another in the opening round, the draw has served up a mouth-watering headline clash for the defending champions.

Kaizer Chiefs will begin their title defence with a difficult assignment against Stellenbosch FC, a fixture that promises top-flight fireworks right out of the gate.

In contrast, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns face lower-league opposition; the Buccaneers travel to Limpopo to face ABC Motsepe League outfit Tshakhuma Tsha Mazivhandila, while the Brazilians welcome Motsepe Foundation Championship side Gomora United to their backyard.

The Nedbank Cup Draw Narrative

In a ceremony defined by its “no-seeding” format, where all 32 teams from the Betway Premiership, Motsepe Foundation Championship, and SAFA structures were placed in a single pot, the fixtures produced a balanced mix of David-vs-Goliath battles and all-Premiership duels.

The full fixture list sees Stellenbosch FC hosting Kaizer Chiefs in the standout tie, while Army Rockets FC take on Casric Stars and Hungry Lions battle AmaTuks. Further down the bracket, Tshakhuma Tsha Mazivhandila face Orlando Pirates, Durban City FC host Chippa United, and Polokwane City FC meet AmaZulu FC. The amateur ranks are well-represented as SSU M17 tackle Milford FC, and the TBC SAFA Western Cape representative meets Luthuli Brigades FC.

Elsewhere, FC Cardinals face Jacksa Spears, Mkhambathi FC take on Lerumo Lions, and Upington City FC play host to Magesi FC. The draw is rounded out by Highbury FC hosting Sekhukhune United, Golden Arrows facing Orbit College FC, Mamelodi Sundowns welcoming Gomora United, TS Galaxy clashing with Marumo Gallants, and Siwelele FC going up against Richards Bay FC.

Giant-Killing Potential

With eight teams representing the SAFA amateur structures—including the likes of North West’s Army Rockets and Gauteng’s SSU M17—the “Ke Yona” spirit remains the heartbeat of the competition. For these minnows, the Last 32 represents a life-changing opportunity to topple the giants of the professional ranks.

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) is expected to confirm the official dates, kick-off times, and venues for these encounters in the coming days.