Jacksa Spears Stun Nedbank Cup to Reach Quarter-Finals

James Harrison

24 Feb 2026

5 MIN READ

Jacksa Spears Stun Nedbank Cup to Reach Quarter-Finals

MATCH PREVIEW

The magic of South Africa's Nedbank Cup was on full display this weekend as amateur side Jacksa Spears etched their name into tournament folklore, joining Sekhukhune United in the quarter-finals after a weekend of drama that saw dreams realized and giants long gone.

Sekhukhune's Clinical Edge Seals Progress

At Tuks Stadium, Sekhukhune United demonstrated the poise of a side with serious cup pedigree. A single moment of brilliance from Vuyo Letlapa proved the difference in a tightly contested 1-0 victory over the University of Pretoria. On 55 minutes, Letlapa collected possession some 35 yards from goal and unleashed an unstoppable, arcing drive that nestled perfectly in the corner—a strike worthy of winning any cup tie.

It was a deserved victory for Eric Tinkler's Limpopo outfit, who controlled large swathes of the game. Having been finalists in 2023 and now reaching the last eight for the second consecutive year, there's a growing belief in the camp. With defending champions Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, and the mighty Mamelodi Sundowns all eliminated, the path is clearing for a potential new champion to emerge.

History Made at Mxolisi Dicky Jacobs Stadium

While Sekhukhune's win was expected, the story of the round unfolded elsewhere. At the Mxolisi Dicky Jacobs Stadium, ABC Motsepe League side Jacksa Spears became just the fourth amateur team in Nedbank Cup history to reach the quarter-finals. Itumeleng Olyn's 41st-minute winner against fellow third-tier side CR Vasco da Gama sparked wild celebrations, writing the club into the history books alongside Baroka FC (2011), Summerfield Dynamos (2022), and Dondol Stars (2023).

Spears' fairytale run has seen them dispatch two third-tier opponents, having beaten FC Cardinals in the Last 32. Vasco da Gama's task was made monumentally harder when captain Mogamat Bull received a red card just eight minutes into the second half, leaving the Cape Town side with a mountain to climb.

Milford FC End Cup Hoodoo in Style

In the day's other standout fixture, second-tier high-flyers Milford FC finally shed their Nedbank Cup jinx with an emphatic 3-0 KwaZulu-Natal derby win over Mkhambathi FC. After needing penalties and byes to progress in recent years, Milford produced a commanding second-half performance to secure their first outright victory in the competition.

The deadlock was broken on 67 minutes by the in-form Bulelani Sigomoshe, who netted for the second game running. Siphosethu Ndlabi doubled the advantage nine minutes later, before Tonny Mbunga capped the victory with his first senior goal in the 88th minute, sealing Milford's maiden trip to the quarter-finals.

Quarter-Final Draw Awaits

The stage is now set for Monday evening's quarter-final draw at 19h00, where the remaining amateur giant-killer will learn their fate alongside the professional clubs. For those looking to gauge how these narratives might unfold, expert football predictions will be crucial as the competition enters its business end. The Nedbank Cup has once again proven its capacity for romance and upset, reminding everyone why it remains one of South Africa's most cherished football institutions.

FAQs

How many amateur teams have reached the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals before Jacksa Spears?

Three amateur teams have previously reached the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals: Baroka FC in 2011, Summerfield Dynamos in 2022, and Dondol Stars in 2023. Jacksa Spears are now the fourth.

What was significant about Milford FC's victory over Mkhambathi FC?

Milford FC's 3-0 win marked their first outright victory in the Nedbank Cup despite reaching the second round for three consecutive years. Previously, they had advanced via penalties and a bye, making this a historic breakthrough for the club.

Which major PSL clubs have already been eliminated from the 2026 Nedbank Cup?

Defending champions Kaizer Chiefs, along with Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns—three of South Africa's most successful clubs—have all been eliminated from the competition, opening the door for potential new champions.

How did Sekhukhune United secure their quarter-final place?

Sekhukhune United booked their spot with a 1-0 win over the University of Pretoria, courtesy of a spectacular 55th-minute strike from Vuyo Letlapa from approximately 35 yards out.

When and where will the Nedbank Cup quarter-final draw take place?

The quarter-final draw is scheduled for Monday at 19h00. The exact location for the draw ceremony is typically announced by the Premier Soccer League ahead of the event.