Orlando Pirates vs Stellenbosch in the MTN8 final draws ever closer. Here’s all you need to know, football fans.
Pirates are looking for an unprecedented fourth crown on the bounce.
A recent league win over Stellenbosch will have Buccaneers fans feeling confident.
Nkota speaking Afrikaans to his new teammate in Saudi Arabia?
MTN8 final looms for Orlando Pirates
Mbombela Stadium plays host to this season’s MTN8 final, where Orlando Pirates meet Stellenbosch on Saturday, 13 September. Kickoff is at 18:00. New signing Kamogelo Sebelebele scored in both semi-finals against Sundowns, and he was the only goal-scorer when Pirates beat Stellenbosch in the league on 20 August. Olisa Ndah is currently the only long-term injury worry for Abdeslam Ouaddou.
Mbokazi is coming of age
This season, Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Lebone Seema have been the first-choice central defensive pairing with injuries to other key defenders. Pirates have kept clean sheets in each of their last three league encounters, so they’ll feel confident ahead of the MTN8 final. Mbokazi has worn the captain’s armband in the last six matches across all competitions, including in their two-legged semi-final win over Sundowns. He assisted Kamogelo Sebelebele’s goal in the first of those two clashes.
Pirates’ new secret weapon REVEALED!
Pirates risk it all with big player exits
Of the 15 exits from Pirates, four attackers stand out. Mohau Nkota left for Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq. 27-year-old mercurial winger Monnapule Saleng is back at his old club Orbit College for a season-long loan after being frozen out at Mayfair. Meanwhile, industrious striker Zakhele Lepasa and winger Katlego Otladisa have been released.
Will Orlando Pirates retain their MTN8 crown?
Let us know by leaving a comment below or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Also, subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.