MTN8 Final Confirmed: Orlando Pirates to Face Stellenbosch FC on 13 September
The MTN8 final has been confirmed with Orlando Pirates set to face Stellenbosch FC on 13 September, as the Buccaneers aim for a record-extending fourth straight title against the rising Western Cape outfit in a rematch of last year’s decider, with the venue still to be announced amid anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling clash at a neutral ground.
Pirates and Stellies Set for High-Stakes Rematch
Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC will renew their rivalry in the MTN8 final on Saturday, 13 September 2025, following dramatic semifinal victories that secured their spots in the showpiece event. Pirates overcame arch-rivals Mamelodi Sundowns 2-2 on aggregate, advancing 4-1 on penalties after a tense second leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, while Stellenbosch edged Sekhukhune United 3-1 over two legs, holding on for a 1-1 draw in the return fixture at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. This sets up a repeat of the 2024 final, where Pirates triumphed 3-1 at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, adding extra spice to the encounter as Stellies seek revenge for their maiden cup final defeat.
The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has yet to confirm the venue, but speculation points to a neutral site such as Moses Mabhida, FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, or even Cape Town Stadium to capitalise on Stellenbosch’s home support in the Western Cape. Last year’s decider drew over 50,000 fans to Durban, and organisers are keen to replicate that atmosphere for the 2025 edition, which marks the tournament’s 50th anniversary since its inception as the BP Top Eight in 1972. The PSL board is expected to announce the location soon, factoring in logistics, security, and fan accessibility amid ongoing stadium upgrades across the country.
Pirates’ Path: Overcoming Sundowns in Penalty Drama
Orlando Pirates’ journey to a fourth consecutive MTN8 final was far from straightforward, requiring nerves of steel in the semifinals against perennial foes Mamelodi Sundowns. After a 1-0 first-leg win at Lucas Moripe Stadium, courtesy of a Relebohile Mofokeng strike, the return leg saw Sundowns level the tie early through Peter Shalulile. Pirates responded with a late equaliser from Monnapule Saleng, forcing penalties where goalkeeper Sipho Chaine emerged as the hero, saving three spot-kicks to seal a 4-1 shootout victory.
Coach Jose Riveiro praised his team’s resilience, noting the psychological boost from knocking out the defending PSL champions. “We’ve shown we can compete at the highest level, and now it’s about delivering in the final,” Riveiro said post-match. Pirates, who have won the MTN8 a record 12 times, are chasing history with a potential fourth straight triumph, last achieved by Kaizer Chiefs in the 1980s. Key players like Patrick Maswanganyi and Tshegofatso Mabasa will be crucial, with the team unbeaten in their last five cup finals.
Stellenbosch’s Rise: From Underdogs to Contenders
Stellenbosch FC’s path to the final has been a story of steady progress under coach Steve Barker, who has transformed the club from PSL newcomers in 2019 to consistent top-four finishers. In the semifinals, they built a 2-0 first-leg lead over Sekhukhune United at Danie Craven Stadium, with goals from Fawaaz Basadien and Lehlohonolo Mojela. The second leg ended 1-1, with Mthetheleli Sibanyoni’s early strike for Stellies cancelled out by Siphesihle Mkhize, securing a 3-1 aggregate win.
Barker reflected on the achievement, saying it validates their long-term project. “Last year’s final was a learning curve; we’re better prepared now,” he noted. Stellies, nicknamed the Winelands Warriors, have impressed with their blend of youth and experience, featuring stars like Iqraam Rayners and Jayden Adams. Their run includes knocking out TS Galaxy in the quarters, marking their second straight final appearance and highlighting the club’s rapid ascent in South African football.
Historical Context and Stakes for Both Teams
The MTN8, sponsored by MTN since 2008, offers a R8 million winner’s prize and a spot in next season’s CAF Confederation Cup for the victors. Pirates, as defending champions, aim to extend their dominance in the competition, where they’ve lifted the trophy in 2021, 2022, 2023, and now seek a fourth in 2025. For Stellenbosch, victory would be historic—their first major silverware since promotion—and a boost ahead of their CAF Confederation Cup campaign starting in September 2025.
Last year’s final saw Pirates come from behind to win 3-1, with goals from Zakhele Lepasa, Kermit Erasmus, and Monnapule Saleng overturning Stellenbosch’s early lead through Antonio Van Wyk. The match drew criticism for poor officiating, but this year’s edition promises tighter refereeing under VAR implementation in cup finals.
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