The affiliates for the NFD League will play their Nedbank Cup preliminary-round matches next Tuesday, December 15.

Unlike in the last three years when Black Leopards played their preliminary-round matches at home, Lidoda Duvha will start their Nedbank journey with an away fixture. The Thohoyandou outfit will meet African Warriors at the Charles Mopedi Stadium in Phuthaditshaba.

Leopards have a good Nedbank Cup track record. When asked about their level of readiness for the game, the coach of Black Leopards, Mr Kostadin Papic, said that although their primary focus was on the league title, it was important for them to maintain the team’s good record in the Nedbank Cup.

The pace setters, Baroka FC, will play at home. They will host Royal Eagles at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. Royal will have to double their efforts if they want to beat Baroka. The Polokwane side are still to lose a league match at home this season.

Santos will fly to Emalahleni, where they will lock horns with Witbank Spurs at the Puma Rugby Stadium. Highlands Park will fight for a place in the last-32 stage of the competition with Milano United at the Makhulong Stadium in Thembisa, while Vasco da Gama will entertain Mbombela United at the Parow Park Stadium.

Amazulu will host Thanda Royal Zulu in their Kwazulu Natal derby at the Princess Magogo Stadium. Moroka Swallows are gearing themselves up for a home match against FC Cape Town at the Dobsonville Stadium. Mthatha Bucks will play against Cape Town All Stars at the Mthatha Stadium. All matches are scheduled to start at 15:00.