The first major piece of silverware of the South African football season will be decided this weekend when Orlando Pirates face Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final.
Two of the country’s biggest clubs will meet at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, 10 October, with the Buccaneers aiming to retain their crown and Sundowns looking to spoil their party.
Pirates vs Sundowns: when is the MTN8 final?
The MTN8 final will take place on Saturday, 10 October 2026.
The match will be played at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, with kickoff scheduled for 18:00.
Fans unable to attend the final can watch the action live on DStv channel 202.
Pirates chasing another MTN8 title
Orlando Pirates enter the final with an impressive record in the competition.
The Buccaneers have won the MTN8 four consecutive times and five of the last six editions, making them the dominant force in the tournament in recent seasons.
They will also arrive in Durban on a remarkable 25-match unbeaten run across all competitions, giving them plenty of confidence ahead of the showdown.
Their last two defeats came against Casric Stars on penalties in the Nedbank Cup and Sundowns, who secured a 2-1 Betway Premiership victory over Pirates in February.
Appollis could be a key figure
One player attracting plenty of attention heading into the final is Oswin Appollis.
The Pirates attacker recently delivered an outstanding performance for Bafana Bafana, registering three assists during South Africa’s 5-0 victory over Eritrea.
The 25-year-old has also contributed two goals and two assists in seven Betway Premiership appearances this season.
His pace, creativity and ability to create opportunities could prove important if Pirates are to overcome Sundowns and lift another MTN8 trophy.
Sundowns looking to end Pirates’ dominance
Mamelodi Sundowns will have their own ambitions at Moses Mabhida.
The Brazilians have already demonstrated that they can trouble Pirates, having beaten the Buccaneers 2-1 in the league earlier this year.
They will now look to repeat that result on the biggest stage and prevent their rivals from extending their remarkable MTN8 winning streak.
With both clubs boasting quality squads and plenty of experience in big matches, the final promises to be another intriguing chapter in one of South African football’s biggest rivalries.
Pirates vs Sundowns: match details
Fixture: Orlando Pirates vs Mamelodi Sundowns
Competition: MTN8 Final
Date: Saturday, 10 October 2026
Venue: Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban
Kick-off: 18:00
TV: DStv Channel 202
Who will lift the MTN8 trophy — Pirates or Sundowns?
