By Dzudzie Faith Netshisaulu
Thousands of soccer loving South Africans braved the rainy weather and converged at the FNB Stadium for this year’s Carling Black Label Cup on Saturday.
The Carling Cup which was previously contested by only Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates since its launch in 2011, relaunched this year, “opening the gates” to all 16 DSTV Premiership clubs to participate- provided their supporters voted them into the top four. 
Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns and AmaZulu FC had the packed FNB Stadium and those watching on TV entertained from as early as 09:30am where Sundowns faced off with Usuthu for the first semi-final. Downs beat AmaZulu 3-0 and advanced to the final match against Pirates, who had beat Chiefs in the second semi-final which was played earlier that afternoon.
The Chloorkop based side was crowned champions after thrashing Pirates 4-0.
Meanwhile, the local league will be on recess due to the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Qatar, with the next match on the 30th of December 2022.