Soweto Derby Round 2, plus Downs v AmaZulu, oh… I’ll drink to that!

This Saturday, fans can enjoy the first Carling Black Label Cup in its new format. Four teams, three matches and one third-place play-off penalty shootout will provide some much-needed entertainment. With the DStv Premiership on hiatus for exactly two months from 30 October to 30 December – due to the MTN8 final and the 2022 FIFA World Cup break – the “Beer Cup”, as it’s been dubbed, feels like manna from heaven. After the fans cast their votes, AmaZulu FC were the fourth side to join the country’s

traditional Big Three in the tournament, underscoring their growing status in local football. The starting XIs chosen by supporters’ votes will throw up many interesting questions – Soccer Laduma delves into the tactics, key players and question marks for the four coaches. Not least in terms of concerns is for the two coaches who reach the final – two fixtures in one day is no joke, but also a rare treat for fans! Supporters often disagree regarding which players the coach is selecting and this is a chance to see if, for once, the fanbases know more than the men in charge. Few things highlight that more than Erick Mathoho retaining the support of the Amakhosi faithful even though he basically hasn’t

featured this season.