By Rorisang Rampheteng:
Siwelele FC will make history on Sunday when they face Richards Bay United in their first-ever Nedbank Cup match, to be played at Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium in Mangaung, Bloemfontein. The fixture also marks Siwelele’s first home game of 2026, adding extra significance to what promises to be a special occasion for the club and its supporters.
The Free State-based side will be looking to make a strong statement in the country’s most prestigious knockout competition as they welcome top-flight opponents Richards Bay United.
Recent form and previous meeting
Heading into the encounter, Siwelele will draw confidence from their most recent clash against Richards Bay, where the two sides played to a 1–1 draw in the Betway Premiership. That result showed Siwelele’s ability to compete against established Premiership opposition and will be fresh in the minds of both camps as they prepare for the Nedbank Cup showdown.
While the cup presents a different challenge, the evenly contested league encounter suggests Sunday’s match could be closely fought.
Squad and camp morale boost
According to Siwelele FC spokesperson Moabi Lemeck Mohono, the team goes into the match in good physical condition, with no injury concerns affecting the squad. “So far, we have a clean bill of health in terms of injuries and the boys are ready to tackle Richards Bay United in the upcoming battle in the Nedbank Cup,” said Mohono.
The club has also responded positively to the departure of striker Siviwe Magidigidi, with Mohono insisting the team has enough depth to continue competing. “We have moved on from losing our marksman Siviwe Magidigidi because we have ample talent in our team to help us advance to the next round of the tournament,” he added.
New signings and supporter call
Siwelele have further strengthened their squad ahead of the cup tie, bolstering their playing personnel with the signings of Kgaugelo Sekgota and Thato Letshidi from Polokwane City. The additions are expected to add experience and quality as the team targets progress in the competition.
Mohono believes the atmosphere will play a key role and has called on supporters to turn out in numbers. “We promise an entertaining game of football and ask our loyal supporters to fill up Dr Molemela Stadium this coming Sunday and sing their lungs out as usual,” he said.
A special occasion in Bloemfontein
The spokesperson highlighted the emotional significance of the match, describing it as a celebration of the club and its supporters. “This will be our first home game in 2026 and it will be so great to see a sea of green and white, flashing lights lighting up the beautiful skies of Bloemfontein as we celebrate our win in front of our vibrant ‘Heart and Soul’.”
Sunday’s clash offers Siwelele FC a chance to announce themselves on the Nedbank Cup stage and write a new chapter in the club’s growing history. – @NewsSA_Online
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