sportskeeda
Fans have cast over four million votes to create a strong roster for the Carling All-Star team, poised to defend the Carling Black Label Cup against Carling Knockout champions Magesi FC at Orlando Stadium on December 21.
Sipho Chaine, the goalkeeper from Orlando Pirates FC, has emerged as the crowd favorite, gathering more than 63,000 votes.
Chaine headlines a starting lineup that exclusively showcases players from Orlando Pirates FC, Mamelodi Sundowns FC, and Kaizer Chiefs FC.
These three powerhouse clubs pose a significant challenge to the energetic Magesi FC, promising an exciting Carling Black Label Cup clash between two squads eager to leave their mark.
Chaine will be backed by a defensive line that includes Pirates’ Jabulani Mokone and Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Chiefs’ Aiden McCarthy in central defense, and Sundowns’ Asekho Tiwani at left-back to complete the back four.
In midfield, Sundowns’ Gomolemo Kekana and Bathusi Aubaas will take charge, with Chiefs’ Gaston Sirino and Pirates’ Relebohile Mofokeng playing on the flanks.
Leading the offensive front for the Chiefs will be Ashley du Preez and Naledi Hlongwane.
The All-Star team is a mix of experienced veterans and rising stars, incorporating five players from Diski sides and six from the Premier Soccer League’s top teams.
“As we approach the thrilling Carling Black Label Cup, we reflect on a campaign that has seen over four million votes cast,” said Kerryn Greenleaf, Brand Director of Carling Black Label.
“The Carling All-Star team, crafted entirely by passionate fans in a unique partnership, aims to defend the trophy they won last year.”
“It will be intriguing to see if Magesi FC, known for their underdog tenacity, can triumph over a group of giants at the heart of South African football! We encourage fans to buy their tickets early for what promises to be an unforgettable experience.”
“We also recommend that fans arrive early, as the event will feature incredible entertainment both on and off the pitch.”
Tickets for the Carling Black Label Cup are available starting at R50 through Ticketpro and Shoprite outlets nationwide.
Football fans can look forward to thrilling matches and an impressive lineup of entertainers. Plus, they will have the chance to win R90,000 through the Fak’iGoal Uzobona initiative.
This campaign aims to encourage early goal scoring by rewarding the champion fan who correctly predicts which team will score first and when.
The prize starts at R90,000, decreasing by R1,000 for each minute that passes.
The fan who makes the correct prediction will receive the remaining amount, while the team that scores first will also take home an equal share.
Fans will also have the chance to choose the Man of the Match, who will be awarded a prize of R100,000.
The Carling All-Star team will be managed by coach Jose Riveiro, who previously led the team to victory in last year’s Carling Black Label Cup against Stellenbosch FC in Polokwane.
The Spaniard will have a strong bench to utilize during the match. Nqobani Biyela will act as the backup goalkeeper, while defenders Dimpho Mdalane, Xolani Cossa, Akhanyisile Sinoti, and Reeve Frosler will be available on the bench.
In midfield and attack, the options include Mfundo Vilakazi, Sanele Phiri, Simphiwe Selepe, Monnapule Saleng, Thembinkosi Lorch, Patrick Maswanganyi, and Tshegofatso Mabasa.
