By Michael Madyira
The Nedbank Cup saw another traditional outfit bite the dust on Wednesday, when First Division side University of Pretoria knocked out Moroka Swallows, beating the Dube Birds 2-1 at Tuks Stadium.
Swallows follow another Soweto giant Kaizer Chiefs out the exit door after Amakhosi failed to get past the round of 32.
Last season’s losing finalists, Sekhukhune United, are scheduled to take on AmaZulu at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Thursday.
And Kaizer Chiefs slayers Milford FC will be keen to pull another stunner when they host Stellenbosch FC at Princess Magogo Stadium on Friday.
Headlining the weekend are defending champions Orlando Pirates, who meet the Hungry Lions at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
The Buccaneers will be out to avoid an upset by their second-tier opponents as they go into this contest with five key players out because of fitness issues.
“It’s our responsibility to make sure the players are on the right track by keeping them motivated,” Pirates coach Jose Riveiro told the media.
“We have to understand the responsibility for us on Saturday because we want to be in the next round. We want to defend the trophy, so we must keep our feet on the ground.”
On the same day, SuperSport United travel to King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium to face Richards Bay who are keen to ease their PSL troubles with a good run in the Nedbank Cup.
Chippa United face third-tier side Ravens in their bid to win this trophy for the first time.
Mamelodi Sundowns continue with their bid to bag at least a treble this season when they welcome Maritzburg United at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday.
The Brazilians surrendered the Nedbank Cup to Pirates last season and are keen to reclaim it and become champions for the seventh time.
Another third-tier side, D’General, host TS Galaxy at Free State Stadium on Sunday.
Pictured above: Orlando Pirates forward Patrick Maswanganyi tries to get past Crystal Palace’s Teboho Mashego in a round of 32 match.
Image source: PSL
