The Last 32 of the Nedbank Cup saw major upsets and dramatic penalty shootouts, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
In the biggest shock, 13-time champions Kaizer Chiefs were eliminated by lower-league Milford FC in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw. This marks the third time in four seasons that Chiefs have exited the cup at this stage.
Other interesting results include Hungry Lions’ 1-0 extra-time win over 10-man JDR Stars and D’General FC’s 2-0 victory over Madridistas FC, both lower-league teams.
Aside from the Kaizer Chiefs upset, five additional matches were decided by penalties, including top-flight teams Sekhukhune United, Moroka Swallows, and Stellenbosch FC overcoming lower-league opponents.
Defending champions Orlando Pirates cruised to a 6-0 win against minnows Crystal Lake.
TS Galaxy continued their good form against Golden Arrows, winning 2-1 away just days after another victory over the same team.
Richards Bay secured a 3-2 win over Polokwane City thanks to a Thulani Gumede double.
The Last 16 draw will be held on Monday evening, with the matches scheduled for mid-March.
WHAT KAIZER CHIEFS COACH SAID AFTER NEDBANK CUP EXIT
Following the shocking defeat, Kaizer Chiefs’ interim coach, Cavin Johnson, issued an apology to the team’s 16 million supporters.
Just days before the loss, Johnson had expressed his focus on winning the Nedbank Cup. However, Chiefs’ hopes were dashed as they succumbed 5-4 on penalties after a goalless draw. This defeat increases the likelihood of the team ending the season trophyless, extending their drought to nine years.
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Johnson acknowledged the disappointment of the fans, stating, “You have to apologise to the 16 million supporters that we have. I am sure they have seen the game on television.” He emphasised that Chiefs dominated the game, but they must “repay back the people by playing properly in the league.”
Milford FC, Chiefs’ unlikely conquerors, have only secured five wins in 19 games this season in the South African second division, highlighting the magnitude of the upset.
Chiefs will attempt to salvage their season against Moroka Swallows in their next match on Saturday.