2026 Nedbank Cup: Full list of qualified teams and Round of 32 draw details
Trophy during the 2025 Nedbank Cup Final Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates Press conference at Nedbank Head Office in Umhlanga on 07 May 2025 © Alche Greeff/BackpagePix
The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has officially confirmed the teams that will take part in the much-anticipated 2026 Nedbank Cup, one of South African football’s most exciting and unpredictable competitions. True to its reputation as a tournament where giants can fall and underdogs can rise, the upcoming edition brings together elite top-flight clubs, ambitious lower-division sides, and determined SAFA teams from across the country.
In total, 32 teams have qualified for the Round of 32, with representation spanning the Betway Premiership, the Motsepe Foundation Championship, and the SAFA structures. The final slot will be occupied by a SAFA club from the Western Cape, which is yet to be confirmed.
When and Where Will the Draw Take Place?
The official Round of 32 draw is scheduled for Thursday evening and will take place in Sandton. Football fans across the country will be able to follow proceedings live on SuperSport PSL Channel 202, as anticipation builds around potential blockbuster clashes and surprise match-ups.
How the Nedbank Cup Draw Will Be Conducted
In keeping with long-standing Nedbank Cup tradition, the draw will follow a simple but suspense-filled format:
-
All 32 club names will be placed into one pot
-
There will be no seeding, meaning any team can face any other team
-
The first ball drawn in each pairing will be designated the home team
-
The second ball drawn will be the away team
-
This process will continue until all 16 fixtures are confirmed
This open format is what gives the Nedbank Cup its charm—allowing amateur and lower-league teams the chance to host or challenge South Africa’s biggest football brands.
Confirmed Participating Clubs
Betway Premiership (16 Teams)
Amazulu FC
Chippa United
Durban City
Kaizer Chiefs
Lamontville Golden Arrows
Magesi FC
Mamelodi Sundowns
Marumo Gallants
Orbit College FC
Orlando Pirates
Polokwane City
Richards Bay FC
Sekhukhune United
Siwelele FC
Stellenbosch FC
TS Galaxy FC
Motsepe Foundation Championship (8 Teams)
Casric Stars
Gomora United FC
Highbury FC
Hungry Lions FC
Lerumo Lions
Milford FC
University of Pretoria
Upington City FC
SAFA Structures (8 Teams)
FC Cardinals (Free State)
SS M17 FC (Gauteng)
Mkhambathi FC (KwaZulu-Natal)
Tshakhuma Tsha Mazivhandila (Limpopo)
Luthuli Brigades FC (Mpumalanga)
Jacksa Spears (Northern Cape)
Army Rockets FC (North West)
SAFA Club to be confirmed (Western Cape)
Why the Nedbank Cup Always Delivers Drama
The Nedbank Cup is famous for producing unexpected results. With no seeding and a straight knockout format, powerhouse clubs like Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, and Mamelodi Sundowns could easily find themselves facing hungry lower-division opponents eager to make history. For smaller clubs, the tournament offers national exposure, financial rewards, and the chance to upset the established order.
As the draw approaches, excitement continues to build among fans and clubs alike. One thing is certain: the road to Nedbank Cup glory will be anything but predictable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the 2026 Nedbank Cup Round of 32 draw?
The draw will take place on Thursday evening and be broadcast live on SuperSport PSL Channel 202.
How many teams are competing in the 2026 Nedbank Cup?
A total of 32 teams will compete in the Round of 32.
Is the Nedbank Cup draw seeded?
No, there is no seeding. All teams are drawn from one pot.
Who determines the home and away teams?
The first ball drawn is the home team, while the second ball drawn is the away team.
Which team slot is still unconfirmed?
The final slot will be filled by a SAFA club from the Western Cape.