Overview
- The Premier Soccer League published and broadcast the full last-16 draw with eight matchups on Wednesday evening, naming fixtures that will decide entry to the competition’s quarterfinals.
- Defending champions Orlando Pirates were drawn to host Milford FC, giving the 2025 winners a home tie in the first knockout round.
- Mamelodi Sundowns will again face Marumo Gallants in a repeat last-16 pairing after Gallants eliminated Sundowns in a notable penalty upset in a recent edition.
- Newcomers Kruger United will make their Carling Knockout debut at home against AmaZulu, creating an early spotlight on smaller clubs and possible upset candidates.
- The Carling Knockout has produced surprise results in recent seasons and the 2026 draw now sets the domestic-cup calendar moving toward the Nedbank Cup in early 2027.