Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns are one match away from MTN8 glory, with R10 million in prize money at stake in Saturday’s final.
The two South African football heavyweights will meet at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, 10 October 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00.
More than 50,000 supporters are expected in Durban for what promises to be a blockbuster encounter between two sides determined to lift the trophy.
Both teams have shown their quality on the way to the final, but their journeys have unfolded differently. Pirates have progressed with convincing aggregate victories, while Sundowns had to fight back after suffering a first-leg defeat in the semi-finals.
Orlando Pirates’ Road to the MTN8 Final
Orlando Pirates began their knockout campaign against Durban City in the quarter-finals, where they secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory after extra time to book their place in the last four.
The Buccaneers then faced Sekhukhune United over two legs in the semi-finals.
Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side took control of the tie with a 1-0 win in the first leg before delivering a commanding performance in the return fixture, thrashing Sekhukhune United 3-0.
That result gave Pirates a 4-0 aggregate victory, securing their place in a fifth consecutive MTN8 final.
Their route has been marked by resilience in the quarter-finals and clinical finishing in the semi-finals. With momentum on their side, the Buccaneers will be eager to turn another final appearance into silverware.
Mamelodi Sundowns’ Road to the MTN8 Final
Mamelodi Sundowns also had to work hard to reach the final.
The Brazilians opened their campaign against Polokwane City in the quarter-finals, winning 3-2 after extra time in a competitive encounter.
Their semi-final clash with Golden Arrows proved even more demanding. Sundowns suffered a 1-0 defeat in the first leg, leaving Miguel Cardoso’s men with work to do in the return fixture.
The Tshwane giants responded with a 2-1 victory in the second leg. That result brought the tie level on aggregate, with Sundowns advancing under the away-goals rule.
Their comeback under pressure demonstrated their ability to respond when the stakes are high. They will now look to carry that fighting spirit into the final against Pirates.
Pirates vs Sundowns: Who Had the Better Run?
On paper, Pirates appear to have enjoyed the more convincing path to the final, particularly after their emphatic 4-0 aggregate win over Sekhukhune United.
Sundowns, however, had to overcome a difficult semi-final situation after losing the opening leg against Golden Arrows. Their response showed the determination required to survive knockout football.
Pirates will take confidence from their strong semi-final performance, while Sundowns will draw encouragement from their ability to recover under pressure.
Ultimately, previous results will count for little once the teams take to the pitch in Durban. With the MTN8 trophy and R10 million in prize money on the line, both sides have plenty to play for.
Who has had the better journey to the final — Orlando Pirates or Mamelodi Sundowns? Share your verdict in the comments!
