The stage is officially set for the biggest domestic showdown of the early season. Soweto giants Orlando Pirates have touched down at King Shaka International Airport in eThekwini, arriving in high spirits ahead of Saturday’s blockbuster MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns.
The high-stakes clash will kick off at 18:00 on Saturday at a sold-out Moses Mabhida Stadium, with anticipation reaching fever pitch across South African football.
Chasing History: Five in a Row on the Line
While Mamelodi Sundowns are eager to break their MTN8 trophy drought—having last lifted the Wafa Wafa title in 2021—the Buccaneers arrive carrying the weight of remarkable tournament pedigree.
Orlando Pirates are hunting a historic fifth consecutive MTN8 title, a golden era of dominance that began back in 2022:
- 2022: Defeated AmaZulu in the final.
- 2023: Triumphed over Mamelodi Sundowns on penalties, with hero Sipho Chaine saving three spot-kicks after a tense 0-0 stalemate.
- 2024 & 2025: Secured back-to-back triumphs over Stellenbosch FC, including a resounding 3-0 extra-time victory at Mbombela Stadium last year.
Having already carved their name into the history books as the first team to reach five successive MTN8 finals following a 4-0 aggregate sweep of Sekhukhune United in the semi-finals, Jose Riveiro’s men are just 90 minutes away from extending an unprecedented dynasty.
With both squads boasting immense quality, Durban is primed for a classic coastal battle. Will Sundowns end the reign, or will the Sea Robbers keep their crown?
