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 Betway 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.
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 will be the 52nd 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 are looking for a record-extending fifth-straight title – and to tie the Glamour Boys’ overall mark.
This year’s winners will walk away R10 million richer, while the other seven teams will all earn R1 million regardless of where they finish.
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
