Cape Town — DStv Premiership pace-setters Mamelodi Sundowns and Richards Bay FC will face off in the opening round of the 2023 Nedbank Cup after the draw was conducted in Sandton, Johannesburg on Thursday evening.
Several opening-round fixtures will be all-Premiership affairs and Maritzburg United have been pitted against struggling Kaizer Chiefs.
“We are excited to kick off the 16th edition of the Nedbank Cup, a great feat in South African knockout football," said Khensani Nobanda, Group Executive, Marketing and Communications at Nedbank.
"The 2023 season provides yet another opportunity for amateur teams to compete with the best in local football and showcase their talent. As Nedbank, our aim is to continue supporting the growth and development of local football.
"To show our commitment, in collaboration with the 2023 Nedbank Cup winners, we will install our 8th multipurpose sports court in a school and community where the winning club is based.
"Our goal for the sports court is to help develop skills and provide a facility that encourages more participation in football and other sport."
The successful partnership between Nedbank and the PSL has made it possible for the Nedbank Cup to enter its 16th year and land it the crown of being South Africa’s biggest knockout football competition.
“The Nedbank Cup is known for its inspiring stories and giving a platform for raw talent to flourish, and as the PSL, we are excited about what is in store this season," said PSL Acting CEO, Mato Madlala.
"We would like to thank Nedbank for their continued support which has helped us grow and improve the beautiful game over the past 16 years. We are thrilled to welcome the eight clubs from the SAFA divisions who will have a wonderful opportunity to compete against the 24 clubs from the professional ranks.
"We hope that they will add a new dimension to the competition."
The tournament has given an opportunity to many young stars by pitting them against top professionals and has in some instances seen them overcome their 'Goliaths'.
The full Nedbank Cup Round of 32 draw reads:
SuperSport United vs Dondol Stars FC
Lamontville Golden Arrows vs Pretoria Callies
Marumo Gallants vs Magesi FC
FC Blackcross vs Venda Football Academy
Mamelodi Sundowns vs Richards Bay FC
Cape Town Spurs vs Baroka FC
TS Galaxy vs Amavarara FC
Sekhukhune United vs Liver Brothers
Stellenbosch FC vs Swallows FC
Mpheni Home Defenders vs Clarewood FC
Mkhambathi FC vs Casric Stars
Cape Town City vs Royal AM
Maritzburg United vs Kaizer Chiefs
All Stars FC vs Orlando Pirates
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