By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Premier Soccer League (PSL) confirmed the fixtures for the Nedbank Cup round of 16 in a televised live draw on SuperSport channel 202, on Monday evening.
While most DStv Premiership clubs reached the Last 16, record champions Kaizer Chiefs were knocked out after losing 5-4 on penalties to Motsepe Foundation Championship side Milford FC.
Meanwhile, defending champions Orlando Pirates made light weight of minnows Crystal Lake, beating them 6-0, and Mamelodi Sundowns also put six past MFC side La Masia.
Giant killers Milford FC were drawn against Carling Knockout Cup champions Stellenbosch FC, while Pirates and Sundowns both face Motsepe Foundation Championship sides.
As the future of the tournament unfolded at the round of 16 draw, the spotlight was on the opening of South Africa’s first fully-fledged fan and creator house, Ya Rona House – which is set to transform how football fans experience their love of the game.
Ya Rona House, based in Parktown, Johannesburg, is the ultimate intersection between sports, entertainment and culture. True to its name, which translates to ‘our house’, Nedbank will invite football fans into the house and give them an unforgettable football experience.
Ever imagined watching a game and rubbing shoulders with football legends like Teko Modise and Siphiwe Tshabalala while eating a gourmet gameday meal prepared by Chef Benny himself? The answer is the Ya Rona House.
The Ya Rona House is not just a sports venue – it’s a hotspot where football culture meets lifestyle vibes to create an electrifying atmosphere that appeals to a diverse audience. From immersive content creation sessions to interactive fan experiences, Ya Rona House will showcase the best of South African football alongside a curated selection of lifestyle offerings, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Khensani Nobanda, Nedbank’s Group Executive of Marketing and Corporate Affairs says, ‘This year, we’re elevating the excitement of the tournament and placing our fans at the centre. Ya Rona House takes the fan experience beyond the beautiful game and will encompass multiple engaging experiences, ensuring that every moment is a celebration of all South Africans. At Nedbank, our priority is to provide leading delightful experiences to clients, and Ya Rona House is a demonstration of this focus.’
Nedbank invites football fans to celebrate the spirit of Ke Yona, Ya Rona and embrace the uniqueness of the 2024 Nedbank Cup. For entry you must use your Nedbank MiGoals Plus Account and Stokvel Account for your chance to access the ultimate fan experiences at Ya Rona House
For the first time ever, supporters stand the chance to win their share of R5 million in cash and other weekly prizes when they participate in weekly Nedbank Cup activities that go on until the final day of the tournament.
The tournament’s enduring spirit of David-versus-Goliath encounters, combined with innovative fan integration mechanics, sets the stage for an unforgettable journey both on and off the field. The Nedbank Cup round of 16 will be played during March with dates and venues to be confirmed by the PSL.
Nedbank Cup Draw Last 16
Milford FC vs Stellenbosch FC
Mamelodi Sundowns vs Maritzburg United
Sekhukhune United vs AmaZulu
Chippa United vs FC Ravens
Orlando Pirates vs Hungry Lions
AmaTuks vs Moroka Swallows
Richards Bay vs SuperSport United
D’General vs TS Galaxy.