SAFA has been plunged into a fresh crisis after its first NEC meeting of the year erupted into physical violence. What was intended to be a high-level administrative gathering at SAFA House on Saturday quickly deteriorated as officials traded blows, overshadowing crucial discussions regarding the future of the national game.
After a few seasons of the Soweto giants showing flashes of being a dangerous outfit only to fall short at crucial moments, the Sea Robbers have produced a commendable run of form, signaling their intent to go for everything in the 2025/26 Premier Soccer League season. The Bucs have already lifted three trophies before the halfway mark of the campaign — the MTN8, Carling Knockout Cup, and Carling Black Label Cup — while also sitting top of the league table, underlining their growing authority and consistency.
The former Morocco defender was captured in a moment of connection with his players after the Buccaneers beat Marumo Gallants 1-0 to win the Carling Knockout at Peter Mokaba Stadium last Sunday. The Soweto giants' coach sprinted on the pitch with his players in hot pursuit to shower him with champagne in celebration of their triumph and second major trophy of the season.
The Buccaneers were rewarded with their impressive domestic form as they produced nine players for Hugo Broos' South Africa, who will be in Morocco from December 21 to challenge for the continental glory. The 20-year-old defender who recently sealed a move to the Major League Soccer outfit Chicago Fire is convinced Bucs players will play a starring role for the national team at the tournament.
The Premier Soccer League rewards the best individuals monthly, starting from the tactician who has delivered for his team, the player with the best starts in the respective month, as well as a second-to-none strike in the South African top-tier. The Sea Robbers have once again been recognised for what they have achieved.
The Sea Robbers have been excellent in local competitions since the 2025/26 season began, already netting two crowns. This weekend, they have a chance to win another one, although unofficial, when they come up against a team selected by the fans at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. Amakhosi and Masandawana have each produced four players in the starting side as voted in.
Arsenal have won the FA Cup 14 times, more than any other club. Their most recent victory came in 2020, but there is a club from Manchester hot on their heels...
How many teams are in the FA Cup?
A total of 745 clubs will be participating in the 2024-25 FA Cup, spanning from the Premier League down to Level 9 of the English football league system, with teams from the Level 10 acting as stand-ins in case a team from the aforementioned levels drops out from the competition. The inaugural FA Cup in 1871-82 had just 15 teams participating in it.
Who has made the most FA Cup appearances ever?
Former Liverpool defender Ian Callaghan, with 88 appearances, is FA Cup's record-appearance maker in history.
Who is the all-time top scorer of the FA Cup?
The all-time top scorer in the FA Cup is Ian Rush, with 41 goals in 62 games, primarily scored during his time as a centre forward for Liverpool.
Who is the youngest player ever in the FA Cup and how old was he?
Paris Hamilton-Downes became the youngest player to ever feature in the FA Cup, debuting at 13 years, 11 months, and one day.for Carshalton Athletic in 2019.
Which famous players have played in the FA Cup?
The FA Cup has featured many football legends, including Steven Gerrard, Ryan Giggs, Thierry Henry, Eric Cantona, and Frank Lampard. Modern-day superstars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Didier Drogba, and Sergio Aguero have also made their mark on the competition.
Which famous managers have managed in the FA Cup?
Legendary managers such as Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho, and Pep Guardiola have guided their teams to success in the FA Cup. Notably, Wenger holds the record for most FA Cup victories as a manager, with seven titles to his name.