The Rockets return to the competition for just the second time in their history after securing a record-high fifth-place finish in last season's Betway Premiership. However, much like previous campaigns, Galaxy have once again had to deal with key departures in the off-season.
Midfield duo Kamogelo Sebelebele and Lebone Seema were snapped up by Orlando Pirates, while Bosnian striker Dzenan Zajmovic, who scored seven goals in his debut season, left the club by mutual agreement. The losses are significant, but not unfamiliar for a side known for developing and selling top-tier talent.
Despite the turnover, Galaxy remain well-organised and difficult to break down - traits that could serve them well against a Sekhukhune outfit that has invested heavily ahead of the new season.
Babina Noko are making their third successive MTN8 appearance after back-to-back fourth-place league finishes, and their squad has been significantly bolstered in the transfer window. Veteran striker Bradley Grobler joins the ranks alongside experienced midfield anchor Miguel Timm, goalkeeper Manuel Sapunga, and dynamic attacker Sphiwe Mahlangu.
It's a clear statement of intent from Sekhukhune, who are targeting silverware this season and a long-awaited breakthrough in knockout competitions. Their MTN8 record, however, remains underwhelming: a 5-0 defeat to Pirates in 2023 followed by a 1-0 loss to Cape Town City in 2024 has left them without a win in the tournament.
Galaxy have had the upper hand in recent meetings between the sides. The Rockets claimed a convincing 3-1 victory at the same venue last November before playing out a 1-1 draw in the return fixture at Mbombela Stadium in April.raw in the return fixture at Mbombela Stadium in April.
Sekhukhune United have announced the permanent departures of Relebogile Mokhuoane and Njabulo Ngcobo while agreeing a loan arrangement with Young Africans for Andy Boyeli.
Amazulu will look to end a five-match winless run in their MTN8 quarter-final against last year's cup runners-up Stellenbosch at the DHL Stadium on Sunday.
Richards Bay coach Ronnie Gabriel says his side head into their MTN8 quarter-final clash without pressure as they aim to topple Mamelodi Sundowns.
TS Galaxy have strengthened their squad ahead of the new season by signing two youngsters from Kaizer Chiefs - Ntandoyenkosi Nkosi and Siyabonga Nguessan.
