Carling Knockout: Sundowns, Pirates and Chiefs avoid each other in last-16 draw

Defending champions Orlando Pirates will begin their Carling Knockout title defence against newcomers Milford after the competition’s round of 16 draw kept the traditional big three apart.

Mamelodi Sundowns were drawn against Marumo Gallants, while Kaizer Chiefs will host TS Galaxy in the other tie involving the leading South African clubs.

Pirates won the competition last season after beating Marumo Gallants in the final. They will be keen to make a positive start after surrendering their four-season MTN8 winning run to Mamelodi Sundowns in this season’s final.

However, a successful Carling Knockout campaign could leave Pirates managing commitments in three competitions. Alongside the domestic cup and the Betway Premiership, they could also be involved in the CAF Champions League if they reach the group stage.

Milford, coached by Dr Xanti Pupuma, face a difficult opening assignment against the holders and Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side.

Kaizer Chiefs will also be looking for an immediate response when they welcome TS Galaxy. Chiefs have already been eliminated from the MTN8 and need to improve their league form after a run of draws, including three successive stalemates.

TS Galaxy have experienced their own early-season difficulties, but will be encouraged by the prospect of facing Chiefs, against whom they have caused problems in the past. They will also be aiming to go further in the Carling Knockout after losing the 2023 final to Stellenbosch.

Mamelodi Sundowns enter the competition with confidence after establishing themselves as the leading domestic side so far this season. They have already secured the first silverware of the campaign by winning the MTN8.

Their meeting with Marumo Gallants will nevertheless present a significant challenge. Gallants eliminated Sundowns on penalties at the same stage of the Carling Knockout last season.

The Rustenburg-based club will also draw inspiration from Ronny Kananelo, who played for Mamelodi Sundowns and won trophies with them during his career.

Elsewhere, AmaZulu will travel to Kruger United. Usuthu will be determined to win the tie and strengthen their status among the leading teams of the season after making an impressive start.

The complete Carling Knockout round-of-16 draw is:

– Kruger United v AmaZulu – Mamelodi Sundowns v Marumo Gallants – Golden Arrows v Chippa United – Durban City v Stellenbosch – Orlando Pirates v Milford – Polokwane City v Siwelele – Sekhukhune United v Richards Bay – Kaizer Chiefs v TS Galaxy