Smiso Msomi
The anticipation builds as the second instalment of the revamped Carling Knockout Cup looms on the horizon, drawing the attention of football fans across South Africa.
This weekend, 16 of the country's top-flight clubs will vie for glory, reigniting hopes of unpredictability and thrilling matches much like last year’s competition delivered.
Back to work as we prepare for Saturdays #carlingblacklabelcup against Mamelodi Sundowns
🏟️ Lucas Moripe stadium
🗓️ Sat 19 Oct 2024
⏰ 18:00
🎟️ Tickets sold @ticketproza outlets - R50#sthendeway #10betgoldenarrows #greenandgold pic.twitter.com/8UgCYz5EIH
Current champions Stellenbosch FC will enter the tournament with their eye firmly set on defending their title, but for KwaZulu Natal clubs, this campaign carries an extra weight — the shadow of a 15-year trophy drought looms large. The last time a club from KZN claimed silverware was in 2009, when Golden Arrows triumphed in the MTN8 under the guidance of coach Manqoba Mngqithi.
AmaZulu kick off the KZN hopes when they welcome Stellenbosch to the King Zwelithini Stadium on Friday at 7pm. The team arrives with a renewed sense of direction following the recent appointment of co-coaches Arthur Zwane and Vusumuzi Vilakazi, who stepped in after Pablo Franco Martin's unsuccessful run in the Betway Premiership.
This duo, despite mixed reactions from fans, brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to laying down a sustainable foundation for the club's future.
Across the battles, the tension is palpable in the Stellies camp following their disappointing performance in the MTN8. Head coach Steve Barker welcomes a brief respite, aiming to rejuvenate his squad and ensure they are mentally prepared to face the challenged AmaZulu team.
Meanwhile, Golden Arrows, branded as the ‘David’ of this weekend, will take on the Goliath of South African football — Mamelodi Sundowns. Mabhuti Khenyeza's side will travel to the Lucas Moripe Stadium Saturday (kick-off 6pm), needing an extraordinary performance to clinch a surprising victory against a side determined to remind their detractors of their prowess.
Royal AM also skirts a challenging path after failing to overturn their Fifa ban. They will meet Cape Town City on Saturday at 8pm, hoping to find redemption. Head coach John Maduka has seemingly managed to ignite a fight in his charges, having not lost any of three matches so far in the league.
However, with a winner guaranteed on the day, Thwihli Thwahla will be hoping to turn their three draws into their first win when they battle The Citizens.
As the campaign develops, pressure mounts on Richards Bay FC, whose newfound expectations from a multi-million investment bring increased scrutiny on head coach Brandon Truter. They will face a turbulent test against Sekhukhune United on Sunday at King Zwelithini Stadium at 3 PM, seeking to prove their worth.
As the Carling Knockout Cup sparks into life, clubs from KwaZulu Natal are determined to shift the narrative of a 15-year wait for glory, making this tournament one filled with expectation, drama, and the quest for triumph. With a legacy of pursuit in the air, the Carling Knockout Cup promises captivating clashes as KZN clubs seek to end a long trophy drought and reignite the passion of their supporters.
Will this be the year the drought is finally broken?