The 2024 Carling Knockout Cup has reached its quarter final stage, and anticipation is high for what promises to be a thrilling set of matchups. As the competition intensifies, fans are eagerly awaiting the action-packed encounters that will bring out the best of South African football. The knockout format guarantees drama, skill, and surprises as teams vie for a spot in the semifinals.

The Carling Knockout Cup kicked off this past weekend, marking its return to South African football for the second consecutive year after a four-year break. The tournament gives top-flight teams another shot at silverware, following Orlando Pirates’ MTN8 victory earlier this month. 

In the first round, Stellenbosch FC secured a thrilling 2-1 extra-time win over AmaZulu in Durban on Friday, setting the stage for an action-packed weekend. Mamelodi Sundowns made a statement with a commanding 5-0 victory over Golden Arrows, featuring goals from Thapelo Morena, Peter Shalulile, and others. Kaizer Chiefs also impressed with a 4-0 win against SuperSport United, powered by strikes from Yusuf Maart and Ashley Du Preez. Cape Town City joined the winners’ circle with a 3-0 victory over Royal AM, led by Amadou Soukouna.

However, the biggest surprise came from rookies Magesi FC, who shocked Orlando Pirates with a 3-2 victory in a five-goal thriller. Goals from Delano Abrahams and an own goal from Pirates’ Thabiso Sesane secured Magesi’s spot in the next round. Elsewhere, TS Galaxy edged Chippa United 1-0 in extra time, while Richards Bay triumphed over Sekhukhune United with a solitary goal from Lwandile Mabuya.

Quarterfinal Fixtures

• Richards Bay vs. Cape Town City
• Kaizer Chiefs vs. Mamelodi Sundowns
• TS Galaxy vs. Magesi FC
• Marumo Gallants vs. Stellenbosch FC

One of the most eagerly anticipated clashes will see Kaizer Chiefs face off against Mamelodi Sundowns. Chiefs advanced after a commanding 4-0 win over SuperSport United, while Sundowns were in top form as they demolished Golden Arrows 5-0. With both teams showcasing their attacking strength, this fixture promises to be a thrilling battle between two heavyweights of South African football.

Defending champions Stellenbosch FC, fresh from their 2-1 extra-time victory over AmaZulu, will be looking to continue their title defence against Marumo Gallants. Gallants pulled off a surprise 3-2 win over Polokwane City, and they will be eager to challenge the holders in what could be a closely contested encounter.

Magesi FC, the competition’s surprise package, stunned Orlando Pirates with a 3-2 win in the previous round and now face TS Galaxy, who narrowly beat Chippa United 1-0 in extra time. Magesi will aim to continue their fairy-tale run, while TS Galaxy hopes to end their underdog story.

Richards Bay will take on Cape Town City in the remaining quarter final fixture. Cape Town City impressed with a 3-0 win over Royal AM, and they will be keen to maintain their momentum as they face a determined Richards Bay side.

With such enticing matchups, the quarter final stage of the Carling Knockout Cup is set to deliver more excitement as teams battle for a place in the semifinals and a shot at the coveted trophy.