Carling Knockout Cup: Full Guide, History & How to Watch

If you’re a fan of South African football, the Carling Knockout Cup is a name you’ll hear every season. It’s more than just another tournament – it’s a chance for clubs to test new tactics, fans to see fresh line‑ups and sponsors to get big exposure. In this guide we break down what the cup is all about, how it works, who’s been winning lately, and where you can watch the games.

How the Carling Knockout Cup Works

The competition follows a straight‑knockout format. Eight teams from the Premier Soccer League enter at the quarter‑final stage. A single match decides who moves on – no two‑legged ties, no away‑goals rule. If the game ends level after 90 minutes, it goes straight to penalties. This makes every minute count and often leads to high‑energy football.

Because there are only three rounds – quarter‑finals, semi‑finals and the final – the whole tournament fits into a few weeks. That timing lets clubs use the cup as a warm‑up for the league season while still offering fans a serious trophy to chase.

Recent History and Notable Winners

The Carling Knockout Cup was introduced in 2020, replacing an older competition that struggled with sponsorship. Since its launch, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs have dominated, each lifting the cup twice. Their rivalry adds extra drama because the two clubs often meet in the later stages.

In the latest edition, a surprise underdog – Mamelodi Sundowns – broke the pattern by beating both big teams en route to a 2‑1 final win. The match went to penalties after a 0‑0 draw, and Sundowns clinched their first knockout crown with a cool spot‑kick.

These results show that while the traditional powerhouses still have an edge, the cup’s single‑match format can produce upsets. That unpredictability is part of why fans tune in.

Where to Watch the Carling Knockout Cup

The broadcasting rights belong to SuperSport, which streams all matches live on its TV channels and online platform. If you have a SuperSport subscription, you can watch the games straight from your laptop, tablet or phone. For South Africans without a pay‑TV package, some matches are also available free‑to‑air on SABC 2.

For fans outside South Africa, the SuperSport International feed is often carried by satellite providers in Europe and North America. You can also find live streams on official club websites or their social media pages, which usually post highlights shortly after each game.

Don’t forget to check the match schedule ahead of time – kickoff times can shift depending on local holidays or other sporting events. Setting a reminder on your phone helps you never miss that crucial penalty shoot‑out.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Viewing Experience

Grab some snacks, invite friends over and treat the Carling Knockout Cup like a mini‑festival. Since games are fast‑paced, keep an eye on social media for live updates if you can’t watch the whole broadcast. Many fans share key moments in real time, which adds to the excitement.

If you’re new to South African football, use this tournament as a quick intro. The clubs often rotate younger players, so you’ll see future stars before they become household names. Pay attention to goalkeepers – their penalty‑shootout heroics can turn a regular match into a classic.

Finally, support your local teams by buying official merchandise. Clubs usually release limited‑edition Carling Knockout Cup shirts and scarves during the tournament, and wearing them shows you’re part of the fan community.

With its simple format, big rivalries and chances for surprise winners, the Carling Knockout Cup is a must‑watch event on South Africa’s football calendar. Keep this guide handy, tune in at kickoff, and enjoy every goal, save and penalty kick that comes your way.