PSL
By Sello Masilo
Johannesburg – The Premier Soccer League has confirmed the kick-off times and venues for the 2025 MTN8 quarter-finals, marking the exciting start to the 2025/26 football season. The tournament, featuring the top eight teams from the previous Betway Premiership campaign, begins on the first weekend of August with four thrilling encounters set to captivate fans across South Africa.
This year’s MTN8 promises high-stakes action as defending champions Orlando Pirates aim to secure a record fourth consecutive title under their new head coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou. The Moroccan tactician, appointed on 23 June 2025, replaced Jose Riveiro, who departed for Egyptian giants Al Ahly after guiding the Buccaneers to three straight MTN8 triumphs. Ouaddou, a 46-year-old former centre-back with experience in European leagues including France’s Ligue 1 and England’s Championship, brings a fresh approach following a brief but impactful stint at Marumo Gallants, where he managed 12 matches, securing five wins since March 2025.
Pirates’ dominance in the competition has been remarkable. In the 2024 final, they defeated Stellenbosch FC 3-1 at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, lifting the trophy for the third time in a row. Now, with Ouaddou at the helm on a three-year contract, assisted by Mandla Ncikazi and Rayaan Jacobs, the team is eager to extend their streak. The coach has already shown faith in young talent during pre-season in Spain, where Pirates played friendlies against Bolton Wanderers, Pafos FC, Las Palmas and Granada from 8 to 20 July. Notably, 19-year-old defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi impressed, earning the captain’s armband in a match against Pafos FC. Ouaddou praised Mbokazi’s leadership potential, stating he will be one of the main men for the upcoming season.
The MTN8, sponsored by MTN and offering R8 million in prize money to the winners, kicks off on Saturday, 2 August. Orlando Pirates host Polokwane City at Orlando Stadium in Soweto, with kick-off at 15:00. Polokwane, who finished eighth in the league, will look to cause an upset against the formidable Buccaneers, who are determined to start strongly and boost their chances of another title.
Later that evening, fourth-placed Sekhukhune United take on fifth-positioned TS Galaxy at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, starting at 18:00. Both sides have delivered entertaining football in recent years, promising a lively clash between two ambitious clubs vying for a semi-final spot.
On Sunday, 3 August, last season’s runners-up Stellenbosch FC host AmaZulu at DHL Stadium in Cape Town, with the match beginning at 15:00. Stellies, keen to go one better than their 2024 final defeat, aim to claim the lucrative prize and their first major silverware in this format. AmaZulu, who ended seventh, will seek to build on their solid league form under coach Pablo Franco Martin.
The weekend concludes with reigning Betway Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns facing Richards Bay FC at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Pretoria, kicking off at 18:00. Sundowns, who last won the MTN8 in 2021, are hungry to reclaim the cup after focusing on league and continental success in recent years. Under coach Manqoba Mngqithi, they boast a star-studded squad including players like Teboho Mokoena and Ronwen Williams. Richards Bay, sixth in the standings, earned their spot with resilient performances and will hope to challenge the Brazilians on their home turf.
Ticket information for all fixtures will be announced in due course by the PSL, with fans encouraged to stay updated via official channels. The quarter-finals set the tone for what could be a fiercely competitive tournament, especially with the semi-finals and final dates yet to be confirmed, potentially including venues like Moses Mabhida Stadium for the decider.
Background and Significance of the MTN8
Introduced in 1972 as the BP Top Eight Cup, the MTN8 has evolved into one of South Africa’s premier knockout competitions, pitting the elite of the Betway Premiership against each other. It traditionally signals the start of the domestic season, building excitement after the off-season and pre-season preparations. Past winners include Kaizer Chiefs with a record 15 titles, followed by Orlando Pirates with 12.
For the 2025 edition, the participating teams qualified based on their 2024/25 league positions: Mamelodi Sundowns (1st), Orlando Pirates (2nd), Stellenbosch FC (3rd), Sekhukhune United (4th), TS Galaxy (5th), Richards Bay FC (6th), AmaZulu (7th) and Polokwane City (8th). The format remains straightforward: single-leg quarter-finals hosted by the higher-seeded teams, leading to semi-finals over two legs and a one-off final.
The tournament’s appeal lies in its intensity and the opportunity for underdogs to shine. For instance, Richards Bay’s inclusion follows their promotion survival and strong finish, while TS Galaxy continues to punch above their weight with tactical discipline.
Team Previews and Key Storylines
Orlando Pirates enter as favourites, buoyed by their recent success and Ouaddou’s philosophy emphasising attacking flair and youth integration. The coach has expressed confusion over doubts about his experience, highlighting his competency and desire to win more trophies. Key players like Relebohile Mofokeng, Tshegofatso Mabasa and the evergreen Deon Hotto will be crucial, with Mbokazi’s emergence adding depth to the defence.
Mamelodi Sundowns, perennial title contenders, seek to end their MTN8 drought. Their squad depth allows rotation, but they face pressure to deliver across multiple fronts, including the CAF Champions League.
Stellenbosch, under Steve Barker, have grown into a force, blending youth and experience. Reaching the final last year has fuelled their ambition, with players like Iqraam Rayners eyeing glory.
Sekhukhune and TS Galaxy promise a midfield battle, with Galaxy’s coach Sead Ramovic known for bold tactics. AmaZulu and Polokwane add grit, while Richards Bay could spring surprises with their defensive solidity.
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