MTN8 Semi-Final Showdown: Orlando Pirates Set to Host Mamelodi Sundowns in Blockbuster August Clash

Orlando Pirates vs Sundowns: A Rivalry Rekindled in the MTN8

Brace yourselves, football fans. One of South Africa’s fiercest rivalries is about to light up the MTN8 again, as Orlando Pirates prepare to host Mamelodi Sundowns in a high-stakes semi-final clash at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, 16 August at 15:00.

The fixture is more than just a semifinal. It’s a reminder of last season’s drama, dominance and defiance — and could be the first of two meetings between the giants this month.

How They Got Here

Both sides breezed through the quarter-finals with commanding performances.

• Orlando Pirates shut out Polokwane City 2-0 in a confident display.
• Mamelodi Sundowns cruised to a 4-0 win over Richards Bay, reminding everyone why they’re the reigning PSL champions.

But this competition is a different beast.

The Buccaneers, serial winners of the MTN8 in recent years, are chasing an incredible fourth title in a row. Meanwhile, Masandawana have lifted this trophy only once in the last 17 years, and they’ll be desperate to rewrite that narrative.

A Recent History Worth Watching

The last time these two locked horns? Pirates stunned Sundowns 2-1 at FNB Stadium in a league game earlier this year.

And who could forget the 2023 MTN8 final, where Pirates triumphed on penalties to leave Sundowns heartbroken once again.

While Downs might rule the league with consistency, it’s the Sea Robbers who have had the upper hand in cup competitions. That psychological edge could be key.

What’s at Stake?

For Pirates, the MTN8 has become their proving ground — a space where silverware is expected, not just hoped for.

For Sundowns, who’ve reached five domestic finals in the past three seasons, the pressure is on to finally convert that dominance into an MTN8 crown.

The second leg will take place in Pretoria, with the date still to be confirmed by the Premier Soccer League. But make no mistake — all roads lead through Orlando first.

What the Fans Are Saying

On social media, fans are already circling the date.

“This is our cup! Let’s make it four in a row,” tweeted one confident Buccaneers supporter.

“Time to silence the noise. Downs are coming,” fired back a Masandawana fan.

Whether it’s playful banter or outright war cries, the anticipation is electric — and the country’s eyes will be fixed on Soweto come 16 August.

Final Whistle

Pirates and Sundowns are more than just two of South Africa’s biggest clubs — they’re two ideologies clashing. Grit vs glamour. Cup pedigree vs league dominance.

The MTN8 semi-final isn’t just a match. It’s a marker of who’s truly boss in South African football in 2025.

So, who’s your money on?

Source:The South African

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