By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
SA’s top three sides were kept apart in the quarterfinal draw for the Nedbank Cup with holders Orlando Pirates facing a tricky test away at SuperSport United.
The draw was conducted on Monday evening in Randburg.
The quarterfinal draw was unseeded, with all team names placed in a single pot. The first team drawn in each pairing became the home team, and the second was the away team.
This process was repeated until all fixtures were finalised as the ‘big three’ managed to avoid each other once again.
Pirates are seeking a third title win in a row and come up against the side that beat them in back-to-back finals in 2016 and 2017, and who have wily coach Gavin Hunt in the dugout.
It has been a mixed season for SuperSport to date, but they will fancy their chances of upsetting Pirates.
Kaizer Chiefs will travel to Stellenbosch FC for another intriguing tie as they seek a first trophy since 2015, and to regain the Nedbank Cup for the first time in 12 years.
Mamelodi Sundowns will face the winner of the Last 32 tie between Royal AM and second-tier Milford FC, who then must take on Sekhukhune United in the Last 16. They could have some wait before they know who they are going to play.
The last of the quarterfinal ties will see second-tier Durban City host 2021 winners Marumo Gallants.
The quarterfinal ties are due to be played on the weekend of March 7-9.
Nedbank Cup Quarter-Final Draw
Durban City v Marumo Gallants
Mamelodi Sundowns v Royal AM/Milford FC or Sekhukhune United
SuperSport United v Orlando Pirates
Stellenbosch FC v Kaizer Chiefs.