Mamelodi Sundowns could create a major scheduling headache for the Premier Soccer League (PSL) after their progress in the Carling Knockout Cup raised concerns about the competition's final date.

According to reports on Thursday, November 5, 2026, the league could be forced to reconsider its plans for the cup final if the Tshwane giants manage to reach the deciding match.

Sundowns have already secured their place in the Carling Knockout semi-finals after defeating Golden Arrows 1-0 at Loftus Versfeld on Tuesday evening. The victory moved Miguel Cardoso's side one step closer to another opportunity to compete for silverware this season.

However, their involvement in another major competition could complicate matters for the PSL.

The Carling Knockout final is currently scheduled for December 12, 2026. Unfortunately, that date clashes with Sundowns' scheduled FIFA Challenger Cup encounter in Qatar, which forms part of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.

The South African champions are expected to face the winners of the Derby of the Americas in that competition. Should they qualify for the Carling Knockout final, they would be unable to participate in both matches on the same day.

The international competition would take priority, meaning the PSL would have to consider moving its domestic cup final to another date.

Finding a suitable alternative could prove difficult because the football calendar is already becoming increasingly congested.

The weekends of November 27-29, December 4-6 and December 18-20 are reserved for CAF inter-club competitions, which could affect clubs participating in continental tournaments.

Orlando Pirates are also involved in the CAF Champions League, meaning the PSL must consider their commitments when making any scheduling adjustments.

There could be further complications if Sundowns progress beyond their December 12 FIFA fixture. A victory would take them into the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final against Paris Saint-Germain on December 16.

That could also affect their domestic league fixtures against Sekhukhune United and Stellenbosch, which are currently scheduled for December 15 and December 18 respectively.

For now, the situation remains dependent on Sundowns reaching the Carling Knockout final. However, their progress has already placed the PSL in a difficult position as it considers how to manage the remaining fixtures.

The league will hope to avoid unnecessary disruption while ensuring that all participating clubs get a fair opportunity to compete.

Source; https://www.facebook.com/100064555429593/posts/1549853373843162/?app=fbl