The Premier Soccer League has given the final confirmation of the dates, kick-off times, and venues for the Carling Knockout Cup Last 16.

The knockout road is real, and it begins in less than a week. Sixteen teams. Eight matches. One path to the Carling Black Label Cup glory.

Defending champions Orlando Pirates will start their title defence at home against newly promoted Milford FC.

The Buccaneers, who lifted the trophy the previous season by beating Marumo Gallants in the final, face a fresh challenge from the Premiership rookies at Orlando Amstel Arena.

The game is set for Tuesday, 27 October. Three of the league’s heavyweights will take the field at the same hour — 7pm.

At Loftus Versfeld, Mamelodi Sundowns will host Marumo Gallants in a rematch of last season’s Last 16.

The Brazilians, recently crowned MTN8 champions, know Gallants have already shown they could trouble them in this competition.

Across Johannesburg, Kaizer Chiefs will welcome TS Galaxy to FNB Stadium under the lights, Amakhosi hunting an early statement.

But the action starts this weekend, and should set the tone.

On Saturday, 24 October, Lamontville Golden Arrows host Chippa United at 3pm at King Zwelithini Stadium, followed by Polokwane City against Siwelele FC at 6pm at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium.

Sunday brings Kruger United’s Carling debut at home to Arthur Zwane’s high-flying AmaZulu at Mbombela Stadium at 3pm, and Sekhukhune United facing Richards Bay at New Peter Mokaba Stadium at 6pm.

The final fixture of the round arrives on Wednesday, 28 October, when Durban City host Stellenbosch FC — the 2023 champions — at Chatsworth Stadium at 7pm.

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