The Winelands side lifted the inaugural trophy in 2023 after edging TS Galaxy 5-4 on penalties in the final, but their current league form has been far less convincing. Steve Barker's men sit 14th in the Betway Premiership with only one win from nine games, and a goalless draw with Chippa United in midweek followed a narrow defeat to Orlando Pirates.

Chiefs, meanwhile, are fifth in the league but have stumbled recently. A 1-1 draw with AmaZulu on October 1 extended their run to just one victory in five matches, leaving interim co-coach Cedric Kaze demanding sharper finishing from his players.

Barker has admitted his side are struggling for confidence. After the Chippa stalemate, he said: "There is a little bit of confidence and lack of belief. We came here to get three points and tried to be as positive as possible, but we just lacked the final finish. We have to focus on our strengths against Chiefs."

Kaze, too, has been frustrated with his team's attack but is backing them to respond in Cape Town. He explained: "We are struggling in the last third. Sometimes we have been unlucky and sometimes we miss chances. We have to keep working.

"Goals will come in the Carling Knockout clash with Stellenbosch."

Players to Watch

Stellenbosch: Andre de Jong's movement could unsettle Chiefs' defence, while Devin Titus offers the pace and directness to trouble the visitors.

Kaizer Chiefs: Mduduzi Shabalala is full of confidence after scoring against AmaZulu, and Ashley du Preez's finishing instincts remain a key weapon.

Injury News

Stellenbosch report a clean bill of health, giving Barker options across the pitch. Chiefs are missing full-back Paseka Mako and midfielder Siphesihle Ndlovu, while Sihle Mbambo and Emile Baron remain sidelined. Rushwin Dortley, however, has returned ahead of schedule from knee surgery.

Head-to-Head

Chiefs have dominated recent meetings, winning the last four encounters in 2025.

In cup competitions, they also hold the edge, with victories in the Nedbank Cup (2016/17, 2017/18, 2024/25) and the MTN8 quarterfinal in 2022/23.

With Stellenbosch desperate to end their slump and Chiefs looking to steady their season under interim guidance, Sunday's clash promises high drama in the Mother City.

Carling Knockout Cup: Stellenbosch eye Cup shock against Kaizer Chiefs