The MTN8 – as we know the cup competition today – was first contested back in 1972.
It features the top eight finishers from the previous season’s DStv Premiership with the champions facing the eighth-placed team, the runners-up taking on the seventh-placed side – and so on.
While the quarter-finals are one-off matches, the semi-finals are played over two legs.
The final is a one-off match.
Fourth consecutive title
This past weekend saw Orlando Pirates claim their fourth consecutive MTN8 title when they beat Stellenbosch FC 3-0 in extra-time at the Mbombela Stadium in Mbombela, thanks to goals from Tshepang Moremi (2) and Tshegofatso Mabasa.
The score was deadlocked at 0-0 after 90 minutes.
The win took the Buccaneers’ overall MTN8 tally to 14 titles, leaving them just one short of equalling the record held by bitter Soweto rivals Kaizer Chiefs.
Orlando Pirates also walked away a cool R10 million richer with the other seven competing sides all earning R1 million each.
It was a perfect start to Orlando Pirates’ season which could see them bank as much at R100 million.
Sponsors
Cellular giants MTN have sponsored the event since 2008.
Prior to that (from 1972 to 2002) it was known as BP Top Eight Cup (sponsored by BP) and the SAA Super Eight Cup from 2003 to 2007 (sponsored by South African Airways).
This year’s tournament was the 51st edition.
So who has tasted the most success in the times the competition has been held?
No surprise to learn that Kaizer Chiefs lead the way with 15 titles, followed by Orlando Pirates with 14. Mamelodi Sundowns are a distant third with four titles.
The Buccaneers will be looking to qualify for next year’s MTN8 where they will have a shot at a fifth-straight title – and to tie the Glamour Boys’ overall mark.
MTN8 ROLL OF HONOUR
Kaizer Chiefs – 15
Orlando Pirates – 14
Mamelodi Sundowns – 4
Moroka Swallows – 3
Bidvest Wits – 3
SuperSport United – 3
Arcadia Shepherds – 1
Santos – 1
Jomo Cosmos – 1
Witbank Black Aces – 1
Bloemfontein Celtic – 1
Golden Arrows – 1
Platinum Stars – 1
Ajax Cape Town – 1
City of Cape Town – 1