After a challenging spell in the league, both Kaizer Chiefs and Stellenbosch FC will be looking to the Carling Knockout as a chance to reignite their season on Sunday.
That being said, with only one team set to advance, the pressure is on to deliver.
Stellenbosch, currently sitting 14th on the league table, will host third-placed Amakhosi at Cape Town Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 in the Mother City.
Stellies have struggled to find form in the league, registering just one win from nine outings, alongside five losses and three draws.
Read: Pundit Warns Against Magesi Dismissal ahead of Carling Knockout Showdown
Their league performance has been unexpectedly poor, especially considering their impressive MTN8 campaign, where they reached the final before falling to the in-form Orlando Pirates.
Kaizer Chiefs, meanwhile, began the season on a high note, keeping clean sheets in their first five league matches and showing early signs of defensive solidity.
Since then, things have taken another twist, going for three league matches without a win. They lost to Sekhukhune United and drew against Marumo Gallants and AmaZulu FC.
In between the league clashes, Chiefs needed penalties to proceed to the second preliminary round of the Caf Confederation Cup against Kabuscorp of Angola.
Their problems on the field are also stemming from off-field issues, as the head coach, Nasreddine Nabi, is currently not leading the team and is believed to be negotiating his way out of the club.
The new tournament provides the two sides with an opportunity for a fresh start and to return to the league with renewed energy.
How to watch
The match will be broadcast on SuperSport Channel 202 and SABC 1 from 14:55, with streaming also available on SABC Plus.
Live commentary will be available on various SABC radio stations.
Head-to-head
10.08.25 – PSL – Stellenbosch 0-2 Kaizer Chiefs
08.03.25 – NC – Stellenbosch 1-3 Kaizer Chiefs
07.02.25 – PSL – Stellenbosch 0-1 Kaizer Chiefs
08.01.25 – PSL – Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 Stellenbosch
02.04.24 – PSL – Kaizer Chiefs 0-1 Stellenbosch
Players to Watch
Stellenbosch will rely on players such as Lebogang Mojela and Sanele Barns to crack Amakhosi’s defence, which has been leaking goals recently.
The visitors will hope Glody Lilepo continue his fine form in front of goals, while Mduduzi Shabalala will also be key.
The youngster was the scorer in the 1-1 draw against AmaZulu on Wednesday.
Betting odds
33/10 Stellenbosch | Draw 22/10 | Chiefs 8/10
The bookies have backed Chiefs to win this bout and proceed to the next round after 90 minutes. Chiefs have dominated the Stellies, winning all the previous four matches.
Chiefs kicked off the season against the Maroons, and Stellies lost 2-0 at home. Back Chiefs to claim a victory in regulation time at 8/10