Orlando Pirates Eye Fourth Straight MTN8 Crown as Rivals Watch from the Sidelines

The 2025 edition of the MTN8 kicks off this weekend, and once again, Orlando Pirates find themselves centre stage—both as reigning champions and as the most decorated club in the tournament’s modern era. Their opening clash against Polokwane City at Orlando Stadium on Saturday (15:00) marks not only the return of competitive football after a nearly 10-week break but also a chance for the Buccaneers to extend their dominance in South Africa’s top eight showdown.

While Pirates prepare to defend their title, their biggest rivals, Kaizer Chiefs, will be biting their fingers from the outside. Chiefs missed out on MTN8 qualification for the fifth time after another disappointing season that saw them finish in the bottom half of the DStv Premiership table. Amakhosi have ended a campaign in ninth place four times and once in 10th—stats that highlight their recent struggles.

By contrast, Pirates remain the standard-bearers for consistency in this competition. Since the inception of the Premier Soccer League (PSL), the Soweto giants have only failed to qualify for the MTN8 once, following a disastrous 2016/17 season. Their consistent top-eight finishes and ruthless form in cup competitions have made them perennial favourites whenever the tournament rolls around.

Now under the guidance of Moroccan-French coach Abdeslam Ouaddou—who succeeds the highly successful Jose Riveiro—Pirates face the pressure of defending the crown. Riveiro led the Sea Robbers to an impressive three straight MTN8 titles, setting a high bar for his successor. Ouaddou’s task is clear: continue the club’s proud tradition in the tournament and keep the winning momentum alive.

No team has matched Pirates’ MTN8 dominance in the PSL era. They have lifted the Top 8 trophy more times than any other club since the competition began under the MTN sponsorship banner, collecting six titles. And with just four games required to win—quarterfinal, two-legged semifinal, and the final—the Buccaneers know the path to glory well.

Their closest rivals in terms of league success, Mamelodi Sundowns, have also had their missteps in this tournament. The Brazilians missed out on MTN8 participation four times—finishing 10th in back-to-back seasons in 2002/03 and 2003/04, and then ending ninth in 2008/09 and 2012/13. While Sundowns have dominated the league, their Top 8 record hasn’t always mirrored that success.

As the first whistle approaches, all eyes will be on Pirates to see if they can maintain their grip on the MTN8 and launch the new season in style. With history on their side and a squad filled with depth and talent, the Buccaneers enter the 2025 tournament as favourites once again. And while their rivals watch from afar, the message is clear—Orlando Pirates are ready to write the next chapter in their MTN8 legacy.