Sports
Nedbank Cup Round of 16: Upsets and Excitement Brew as Lower-Tier Teams Challenge Established Giants
The Nedbank Cup, also known as the ‘Cup of Upsets,’ is currently the center of attention in South African football as lower-tier teams challenge established giants in the Round of 16.
This season’s edition has already seen surprises with Milford FC knocking out Kaizer Chiefs, and University of Pretoria eliminating Cape Town Spurs in the opening round.
With the likes of Maluti shocking Orlando Pirates in the past and TS Galaxy overcoming Kaizer Chiefs for the title, the cup has a history of memorable upsets.
Orlando Pirates, a club with a fair share of upset defeats, were famously beaten by Maluti in 2013, leading to significant changes within the team.
Chiefs, the most successful team in the competition, have also had their embarrassing moments such as losing to TS Galaxy in the 2019 final.
Teams like Silver Stars and Tuks have previously caused upsets by defeating top-tier clubs like Pirates and Chiefs.
AmaZulu, under the guidance of Pablo Franco Martin, will face Sekhukhune United, a team enjoying a resurgence under Lehlohonolo Seema, creating an exciting clash in the Round of 16.
As the competition progresses, football fans eagerly anticipate more surprises and upsets in the Nedbank Cup.