Sundowns chairman Tlhopie Motsepe says the friendship between Dr Irvin Khoza and Dr Patrice Motsepe runs deeper than football, reaching down to their children, who grew up together.
On the pitch, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns are fierce rivals. Off it, the families behind them share a long-standing bond.
Tlhopie Motsepe, chairman of Sundowns, spoke about it in an interview with Robert Marawa on Sundowns TV. He said the friendship between Dr Irvin Khoza and Dr Patrice Motsepe has been replicated by the next generation: he, Mpumi and Nkosana spent time together growing up and attended the same primary school.
His comments show that the connection between the two families goes beyond their roles at Pirates and Sundowns.
A rivalry with real stakes
The Sundowns-Pirates rivalry has become one of the most high-stakes fixtures in South African football. The Soweto Derby remains historic, but when it comes to championship relevance, Masandawana versus the Buccaneers has taken centre stage.
Sundowns’ possession-based approach and consistency have long forced Pirates to raise their game. The split of silverware is telling: Sundowns have dominated the Betway Premiership, while Pirates have built a reputation as cup specialists. They beat Sundowns on penalties in the 2023 MTN8 final and won the 2024 Nedbank Cup final 2-1. The rivalry also plays out in the transfer market, as both clubs chase the best talent.
The next chapter
The two sides meet again in the MTN8 final on Saturday, 10 October at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Does the family friendship take the edge off the rivalry, or does it make the final even more special? Tell us in the comments.
