2025 MTN8 Tournament Launches with Bigger Stakes, Bolder Culture, and Unmatched Fan Energy

It’s that time again! The Premier Soccer League (PSL) and MTN South Africa have officially launched the 2025 MTN8 tournament, marking 18 exhilarating seasons of elite football, intense rivalries, and unmatched fan passion. The action begins on Saturday, 2 August 2025, and if the energy around this year’s campaign is anything to go by, fans are in for an unforgettable ride.

This year’s edition promises more than just top-tier football—it’s a celebration of South African culture, identity, and lifestyle. MTN8 is breaking boundaries, turning every match into a spectacle that fuses sport with music, fashion, and fan expression. This immersive experience puts supporters at the heart of the tournament, highlighting the unique ways Mzansi fans live and breathe the beautiful game.

The top eight teams from the previous season are ready to clash for the ultimate bragging rights. Defending champions Orlando Pirates FC are set for a thrilling showdown with Polokwane City. Powerhouse Mamelodi Sundowns take on Richards Bay, Stellenbosch FC battle AmaZulu FC, and Sekhukhune United face TS Galaxy—setting the stage for a blockbuster opening weekend.

Under the rallying cry “Wafa Wafa – Winner Takes All”, MTN is bringing fans even closer to the action with the bold and vibrant campaign “Bazok’feela”—a phrase that means “they’re going to feel you.” This tagline embodies the unshakable spirit of South African supporters and their unapologetic expression of loyalty, style, and pride.

“Bazok’feela, which means ‘they’re going to feel you’, captures the essence of how South Africans express themselves through football,” said Robyn Lewis, General Manager: Brand & Marketing at MTN South Africa. “It’s more than just 90 minutes. It’s about living your truth, feeling every moment, and repping your culture with pride—whether in the stands, online, or on the streets.”

In keeping with the tournament’s elevated energy, MTN has upped the ante with a prize pool of R10 million—R2 million more than last year. One lucky fan will walk away with R1 million and the coveted title of “MTN8 Last Fan Standing.” Daily prizes, from MoMo vouchers to luxury suite tickets and home entertainment packages, are also up for grabs. Fans can enter by recharging with R20 or more and dialing *142# or using the MTN App to access the MTN8 section.

MTN8 2025 is also making a powerful social impact. The Goals for Charity initiative will see R20,000 donated for every goal scored during regular play, with proceeds directed toward meaningful causes across South Africa. The MTN Last Legend campaign, meanwhile, honors football icons by giving them a platform to inspire the next generation and support community development projects—ensuring the tournament’s impact extends well beyond the pitch.

The much-loved Last Journalist Standing competition is back, with R80,000 awaiting the journalist who delivers the most compelling coverage of the tournament, keeping fans informed and hyped throughout the season.

Adding to the tournament’s legacy is the introduction of a distinctive MTN8 crest. From 2025 onwards, this exclusive emblem will be displayed on the sleeve of the reigning champions, symbolizing their triumph and elite status in South African football’s most intense knockout competition.

This season, a lineup of MTN8 Legends—both returning and new—will take centre stage in fan activations and media engagements. Featuring the likes of Lucky Lekgwathi, Morgan Gould, Lehlohonolo Majoro, Fabian McCarthy, Njabulo Maqana, Rodney Ramagalela, and new additions Vuyo Mere and Brent Carelse, these football veterans bring their charisma and legacy to fuel the tournament’s excitement and outreach.

The 2025 MTN8 is not just a tournament—it’s a cultural movement. So gear up, rep your team, and get ready to make noise, because Bazok’feela—Mzansi’s passion is about to erupt on and off the field.