Orlando Pirates clinched the Carling Knockout Cup final with a 1–0 extra‑time victory over Marumo Gallants at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, thanks to a decisive strike from Relebohile Mofokeng. The win secures the Buccaneers’ second trophy of the season, adding to their MTN8 triumph.
âš˝ First Half
The opening 90 minutes were cagey, with both sides struggling to break each other down. Pirates dominated possession and came close through Evidence Makgopa, whose effort was cleared off the line after a mistake by Gallants goalkeeper Washington Arubi. Gallants threatened sporadically, particularly through Katlego Otladisa, but neither side found the breakthrough before full time.
🔥 Extra Time Drama
With the score locked at 0–0, the final demanded extra time. In the 105th minute, Relebohile Mofokeng produced the decisive moment, slotting home after a flowing move down the flank. Pirates then held firm in the second period of extra time, repelling Gallants’ desperate push for an equaliser.
🏆 Significance
Second trophy of the season: Pirates add the Carling Knockout to their MTN8 crown, underlining their domestic dominance.
Source: Ballocentre.com
Images: Premier Soccer League, SupersportFootball, Goal.com, BackPageSix, unplayableza1 Instagram
Orlando Pirates defeated Golden Arrows 3–1 last night at the King Zwelithini Stadium.
The Buccaneers made a confident start and were rewarded in the 23rd minute when Nkosikhona Ndaba’s deflected cross found the back of the net, giving Pirates a deserved lead. Golden Arrows responded with urgency but missed key chances, notably Jerome Karelse’s misfired strike from close range.
The second half saw Arrows equalize in the 72nd minute through Thokozani Khumalo, who finished expertly after a cutback from Angelo Van Rooi. But Pirates hit back immediately—Patrick Maswanganyi’s low cross found Mbuthuma, who slotted home just one minute later to restore the lead.
Mbuthuma then capped off a brilliant cameo with a top-corner finish in the 88th minute, securing all three points and lifting Pirates to second place on the table.
The match was a tense, tactical affair, with both sides creating chances but only one moment of clinical finishing separating them.
Seluleko Mahlambi missed a golden chance in the 17th minute, and Junior Zindoga forced two sharp saves from Ronwen Williams before halftime.
The breakthrough came in the 61st minute, when Arthur Sales, who had come off the bench, finished a flowing move with a low strike past Galaxy keeper Ira Tape. The goal proved decisive, as Sundowns managed the game well in the closing stages, limiting Galaxy’s attacking threat.
Source: Ballocentre.com
Images: Premier Soccer League, SupersportFootball, Goal.com, BackPageSix
The match kicked off with Chiefs flying out of the blocks, and it took just four minutes for Thabiso Monyane to whip in a cross from the right that Shabalala converted at the near post. Chiefs controlled the first half, with Etiosa Ighodaro and Mfundo Vilakazi threatening to double the lead, while Orbit College struggled to gain meaningful possession.
In the second half, Ighodaro’s persistence in the box created another chance for Shabalala, who pounced on a loose ball in the 61st minute to make it 2–0. Orbit responded in the 70th minute with a well-taken header from Ayanda Lukhele, briefly raising hopes of a comeback.
But Chiefs quickly restored their two-goal cushion when Vilakazi curled in a superb strike from the right side of the area in the 73rd minute, and Flávio da Silva sealed the win in the final minute, smashing home a rebound for his third league goal of the season.
What It Means:
Chiefs now sit level on points with Mamelodi Sundowns after 11 matches, continuing their resurgence under co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Madi Safi. Orbit College, meanwhile, remain in the bottom half of the table, still adjusting to top-flight competition.
Source: Ballocentre.com
Images: Premier Soccer League, SupersportFootball, Goal.com, BackPageSix
The Premier Soccer League returned with high-stakes action this weekend, delivering pivotal results that reshaped the top half of the table. Kaizer Chiefs secured a vital 1–0 win over Durban City, with a late strike sealing the three points at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates played out a tense 1–1 draw at Loftus Versfeld, a result that maintained Sundowns’ position at the summit but allowed their closest challengers to close the gap. Pirates, despite their strong form in recent weeks, will rue missed chances that could have propelled them to second place.
20 year old Camren Dansin scored a spectacular equaliser for Pirates at the 34th minute. Something that seems to be happening a lot with the Buccaneers this season (watch and read previous articles below).
🏆 PSL Standings – 2025/2026 Season (as of 2 November 2025)
Source: Ballocentre.com
Images: Premier Soccer League, SupersportFootball, Goal.com
Soweto marked a powerful stride in youth empowerment as football icon Edwin van der Sar, Zodwa Khoza - Foundation Chair Sonono Khoza, and government dignitaries gathered in Diepkloof to unveil a new Johan Cruyff Court — a vibrant space dedicated to nurturing young talent, promoting mental wellness, and uplifting the local community.
Source: Supersport, Zodwa Khoza Foundation
Images: Wayamagazine.co.za, Orlando Pirates FC, SupersportFootball
Orlando Pirates 1–0 Siwelele | Carling Knockout Cup Round of 16
In a match defined by missed chances and mounting tension, it was Mbekezeli Mbokazi who delivered the moment of magic that sent Orlando Pirates into the quarter-finals of the Carling Knockout Cup. With just minutes left on the clock, the young defender unleashed a strike so audacious it left the stadium stunned—and Siwelele goalkeeper Samkelo Xulu rooted to the spot.
🔥 The Goal: A Moment of Pure Class
The build-up was unassuming. Mbokazi won possession deep in his own half, glanced up, and noticed Xulu off his line. What followed was instinct, vision, and execution—a long-range thunderbolt that curled over the keeper and dipped under the crossbar. It was the kind of goal that echoes through highlight reels and fan chants for years to come.
“Goal of the season? No—goal of the century,” one fan exclaimed online.
âš˝ Tactical Notes
Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side showed resilience, but it was Pirates’ pressing and high defensive line that allowed Mbokazi to roam freely and exploit space. His goal wasn’t just a flash of brilliance—it was a product of tactical awareness and confidence.
Conclusion: A Star Emerges
Mbokazi’s strike didn’t just win a match—it announced a talent ready for the big stage. In a team filled with attacking flair, it was a defender who stole the spotlight. As Pirates march into the quarter-finals, one thing is clear: Mbekezeli Mbokazi is no longer just a promising name—he’s a match-winner.
Watch the match highlights below
Source: Ballocentre.com
Images: SoccerBeatZA X, Orlando Pirates FC, SupersportFootball
In a season where Orlando Pirates are rediscovering their rhythm under coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, one name has quietly emerged as a difference-maker: Oswin Reagan Appollis.
The 24-year-old attacking midfielder, signed from Polokwane City, has already made his mark in Soweto with clutch performances and a growing reputation for late-game heroics.
From Cape Town to the Premiership
Born in Cape Town, Appollis began his professional journey with SuperSport United, where he made his debut in the Premier Soccer League. Though opportunities were limited, his technical ability and work ethic earned him a move to Polokwane City, where he matured into a reliable playmaker. Over 89 professional appearances, he tallied 13 goals and 16 assists across all competitions.
Appollis at Polokwane City
His performances in the 2022–2024 seasons caught the eye of Pirates scouts, especially his versatility—capable of playing as a winger, attacking midfielder, or second striker. In mid-2025, the Buccaneers secured his signature, adding depth and dynamism to their attacking options.
âš˝ Contribution to Orlando Pirates in 2025/26
Appollis has featured in five league matches this season, playing 391 minutes and contributing two assists. But it was his performances against Stellenbosch in the MTN8 Final and most recently on September 23 against Siwelele FC that truly turned heads.
Coming off the bench in the second half, Appollis injected urgency into a match that had drifted toward a stalemate. In the 80th minute, he latched onto a deft pass from Evidence Makgopa and fired a low, clinical strike past Ricardo Goss—his first Premiership goal for Pirates. That goal secured a 1–0 win and lifted Pirates to fourth place in the Betway Premiership standings.
He’s also scored in the MTN8 and CAF Champions League preliminary rounds, proving his value across competitions.
🔥 Style of Play: Intelligent, Agile, Decisive
Appollis is not the flashiest player on the pitch, but his intelligence and timing make him a potent weapon. He excels in tight spaces, often playing between the lines and exploiting defensive gaps. His passing accuracy (nearly 80%) and xA (expected assists) rate of 0.36 per 90 minutes place him among the top creators in the league.
He’s also a set-piece threat, with a knack for curling free kicks and delivering dangerous balls into the box. His ability to read the game and adapt tactically makes him an ideal impact substitute—something Ouaddou has leveraged with precision.
Looking Ahead
With Pirates chasing domestic and continental glory, Appollis is poised to play a pivotal role. Whether starting or coming off the bench, his contributions are increasingly decisive. As the season intensifies, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if he can evolve from super-sub to starting XI mainstay.
For now, Oswin Appollis is the pulse beneath Pirates’ late-game surges—and he’s just getting started.
Source: Ballocentre.com
Images: Footballf1rst Instagram, Orlando Pirates FC
Mbombela, 13 September 2025 — Under the floodlights of the Mbombela Stadium, Orlando Pirates etched their name deeper into South African football history with a commanding 3–0 extra-time victory over Stellenbosch FC, securing their fourth consecutive MTN8 title.
But beyond the scoreline, the night was steeped in resilience, redemption, and a powerful human moment: the return of head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, just days after surviving a traffic accident in Gqeberha.
A Final Steeped in Emotion
The Mbombela Stadium, hosting its first MTN8 final since 2016, was packed to capacity as fans from across the country descended on Mpumalanga for what promised to be a high-stakes rematch. Stellenbosch, still haunted by last year’s narrow defeat, came determined to rewrite their story. But Pirates, true to their nickname “The Sea Robbers,” had other plans.
After a tense 90 minutes with both sides locked in a goalless stalemate, extra time became the stage for Pirates’ brilliance. Tshepang Moremi, introduced late in the second half, delivered a stunning brace and assisted another for Tshegofatso Mabasa, sealing a dominant win. Summer signing Oswin Appollis also impressed, providing two assists and showcasing the depth of talent in Ouaddou’s evolving squad.
The Return of Abdeslam Ouaddou
Just a week prior, Ouaddou was involved in a traffic accident in Gqeberha that left him with a fractured arm. His presence on the touchline, arm in a sling but spirit unbroken, was a galvanizing force for the Buccaneers. Players and staff rallied around their coach, whose calm authority and tactical clarity have transformed Pirates into a cup-winning machine.
“His return gave us strength,” said captain Nkosinathi Sibisi, who himself had just returned from injury. “We wanted to win it for him, for everything he’s brought to this club.”
Ouaddou’s journey from recovery to triumph added a layer of emotional resonance to the night. His post-match interview, delivered with quiet humility, reflected a man grateful for life, football, and the unwavering support of his team.
🔥 Stellenbosch’s Brave Effort
For Stellenbosch, the result was bitter but not without pride. Coach Steve Barker praised his young squad’s effort, noting that they “matched Pirates for 90 minutes” and “will come back stronger.” Despite the loss, Stellies continue to grow as a force in South African football, with players like Langelihle Phili and Thabo Moloisane showing flashes of brilliance throughout the tournament.
🏆 A Legacy Cemented
With this win, Orlando Pirates not only lifted the MTN8 trophy but also set a new record: four consecutive titles in the competition — a feat unmatched in the modern era. The blend of youth, experience, and tactical discipline under Ouaddou’s leadership has turned the Soweto giants into serial winners.
As the fireworks lit up the Lowveld sky and the Mbombela crowd roared in celebration, one thing was clear: this was more than just a final. It was a story of recovery, unity, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
Orlando Pirates, Happy People!!!
Source: Ballocentre.com
Images: Samuel Shivambu | BackpagePix, SupersportFootball, Sunday Times, Goal.com, Goalsouthafrica Instagram, Ayandashots Instagram
Johannesburg, September 6 — In a move that blends nostalgia with ambition, Kaizer Chiefs have officially signed Bafana Bafana striker Khanyisa Mayo on a one-year loan from Algerian side CR Belouizdad. The 27-year-old forward, son of Amakhosi legend Patrick Mayo, becomes the club’s 11th signing of the season—symbolizing both a personal homecoming and a strategic push to reclaim domestic dominance.
From Algeria to Naturena: A Timely Return
Mayo’s stint in North Africa was mixed. After leaving Cape Town City in 2024, he helped Belouizdad finish third in the Algerian league and reach the National Cup final, scoring six goals across all competitions. But a change in management saw him sidelined at the start of the new campaign, prompting Chiefs to act swiftly.
Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr. confirmed the club’s long-standing interest:
“It’s no secret that we wanted to bring Khanyisa to Naturena before his move to Algeria. He has a proven track record in the league, and we believe he will add significant value to the squad this season—both in the league and on the continent.”
âš˝ What Mayo Brings to Amakhosi
His arrival also injects experience into a newly assembled squad that includes Lebohang Maboe, Paseka Mako, and Flavio Silva. Chiefs have started the season strongly, winning four of their first five matches, and Mayo’s inclusion could be the final piece in a rejuvenated attacking puzzle.
A Legacy Continued
Khanyisa Mayo joins an elite group of players who’ve followed in their fathers’ footsteps at Kaizer Chiefs. His father, Patrick Mayo, played for the club between 2003 and 2007, transitioning from striker to defender. This generational link places Khanyisa alongside names like Doctor Khumalo, Siphiwe Mkhonza, and Aden McCarthy in the club’s rich family tradition.
Patrick Mayo during his stint at Kaizer Chiefs in the 2000s
In a heartfelt video message, Mayo expressed his excitement:
“I’m khosified and I can’t wait to be part of the beautiful Khosi nation. My blood is gold and black. Love and peace. Amakhosi for life!”
Below is a video of Khanyisa at Belouizdad vs orlando Pirates during last season's CAF Champions League
Source: Ballocentre.com
Images: WHYNOTAFRICA44SPORTS YouTube, Goal.com, Kaizer Chiefs FC, CR Bezouildad, Gallo Images | Credit: Lefty Shivambu
In front of a sold-out crowd of over 74,000 fans, Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns played out a tense 0–0 draw at the FNB Stadium on Wednesday night, delivering intensity, drama, and tactical discipline—even if the scoreboard stayed untouched.
The atmosphere was electric from kickoff, with Amakhosi faithful in full voice and Masandawana supporters matching the energy. It was a night that showcased the passion of South African football, even without goals.
Match Overview
Chiefs had the better chances in the opening 30 minutes, with Ashley Du Preez and Mduduzi Shabalala testing Ronwen Williams.
Cardoso made subtle tweaks after halftime, shifting Sundowns’ shape to gain more control in midfield.
The last 15 minutes saw a flurry of half-chances, but neither side could find the breakthrough.
Despite the lack of goals, the match was anything but dull. Tackles flew in, tempers flared, and both benches were animated throughout. Chiefs maintained their unbeaten start to the season, while Sundowns showed signs of recovery after their MTN8 exit.
The draw leaves both teams with questions about their attacking sharpness, especially Sundowns, who’ve now gone three matches without scoring.
Coach Reactions
Nasreddine Nabi (Kaizer Chiefs), back on the touchline after compassionate leave, praised his team’s resilience:
“We showed character tonight. Sundowns are a top side, but we matched them in intensity and structure. The clean sheet is important, but I wanted more in the final third. We’re building something, and the fans gave us incredible energy.”
Miguel Cardoso (Mamelodi Sundowns) struck a measured tone in the press conference, acknowledging the result while defending his team’s performance:
“We changed the structure slightly after halftime, and I think we controlled better. But we lacked that final pass, that final decision.”
Vibe Check: FNB Stadium at Full Volume
From the pre-match drum circles to the post-match chants, the stadium was alive.
The match may have ended goalless, but the crowd delivered a performance of its own.
Ballocentre.com, ever present in the stadium has brought you a few pics below. Come join us at the next Watch Party!
Source: Ballocentre.com
Images: SuperSport Football, BackpagePix, Daniel Hlongwane for Gallo Images, Lulamile and Lwazi for Ballocentre.com
This Wednesday, August 27 at 19:30 CAT, the Ballocentre.com team will be on-site at FNB Stadium to cover the highly anticipated clash between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns.
With Kaizer Chiefs unbeaten after three rounds and Mamelodi Sundowns looking to bounce back following their MTN8 exit, all eyes will be on this encounter.
Expect exclusive interviews, fan atmosphere, and tactical analysis — Ballocentre.com will bring you every moment as if you were there.
Follow us on Instagram (ballocentre45) to experience the full intensity of this electric matchup. South African football at its finest.
Source: Ballocentre.com
Images: SuperSport Football, Ballocentre.com
The Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville was the stage for a high-stakes showdown on Saturday, August 23, as Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns battled it out in the second leg of their MTN8 semi-final.
With a packed crowd and Ballocentre.com in attendance to cover the event, the Buccaneers clinched their place in the final after a tense match that ended in a penalty shootout.
🔥 A Clash of Giants
Following the 1–1 draw in the first leg, Sundowns looked to have taken control when Iqraam Rayners opened the scoring in the 36th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse. But just like in the first leg, Kamogelo Sebelebele struck late — this time in the 87th minute — with a powerful finish that sent the match to penalties. Pirates held their nerve and won the shootout 4–1, with goalkeeper Sipho Chaine making two crucial saves.
Tactical Breakdown
Pirates leaned on youth and energy, with Sebelebele, Appollis, Makgopa, and Mofokeng all starting.
Sundowns relied on experience, fielding Mokoena, Allende, and Marcelo Lunga, but had to cope without injured captain Themba Zwane.
The midfield battle was fierce, with Nduli and Mbatha holding their own against Adams and Mokoena.
Coaches React
Abdeslam Ouaddou (Orlando Pirates) was emotional and defiant after the match, praising his staff and calling for patience:
“I just ask to be given time,” he said. “I know my skills. I’m African and proud. I love my brothers — that’s why I hug them. They did a great job. If I’m given time, I can help the club. If not, I’ll be fired and go elsewhere. That’s football. But I love my job.”
He also emphasized his belief in local talent:
“I came alone, though I could’ve brought six people from Europe. But I believe in African expertise. This victory belongs to the staff, the players, the management — to everyone.
Miguel Cardoso (Mamelodi Sundowns) acknowledged his team’s shortcomings while congratulating Pirates:
“It was a very balanced match. 1–1 was a fair score. They were better in the shootout, and their goalkeeper was fantastic. Congratulations to Pirates.”
He added:
“I regret the missed chances. We controlled the game but weren’t sharp enough. That will come with time.”
On to the Final
Orlando Pirates advance to their fourth consecutive MTN8 final, where they’ll face Stellenbosch FC on September 13. With momentum on their side and a young squad rising to the occasion, the Buccaneers will be aiming to defend their crown in style.
As promised, the Ballocentre.com team was present in the stands, capturing the intensity of the moment, the emotion of the fans, and post-match reactions from players and staff. A full immersive recap — including exclusive interviews and tactical analysis — will be available soon across their platforms.
Ballocentre.com will be at the MTN8 Final!!!
Source: Ballocentre.com
Images: GETTY, Orlando Pirates FC, Sundowns FC, Goal.com, Nditsheni & Morena for Ballocentre.com
Stellenbosch FC booked their place in the MTN8 final after a gritty 1–1 draw against Sekhukhune United in the second leg of their semi-final on Saturday night at the Peter Mokaba Stadium. With a 2–0 lead from the first leg, the Cape Winelands side sealed a 3–1 aggregate victory, setting up a rematch with Orlando Pirates.
Match Highlights
Mthetheleli Mthiyane opened the scoring for Stellenbosch in the 21st minute, capitalizing on a defensive error and firing low past Renaldo Leaner.
Siphesihle Mkhize gave Sekhukhune hope with a tap-in goal in the 56th minute after a well-worked move down the right flank.
Despite late pressure from Eric Tinkler’s men, Stellenbosch held firm, with goalkeeper Sage Stephens making key saves to preserve the draw.
What’s Next
Stellenbosch will now face Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 final on September 13, a repeat of last season’s showdown. With both teams showing resilience and tactical discipline, the final promises fireworks.
Ballocentre.com will be at the MTN8 Final!!!
Source: Ballocentre.com
Images: GETTY, Stellenbosch FC, Sekhukhune United FC, PSL
Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns played out a tense 1–1 draw in the first leg of their MTN8 semi-final at a packed Orlando Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Match Summary
Teboho Mokoena opened the scoring for Sundowns in the 35th minute, heading home from a pinpoint cross by Marcelo Allende.
Pirates responded in the second half through Evidence Makgopa, who netted his first goal of the season with a composed finish in the 67th minute.
Tactical Notes
Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou handed starts to Makgopa, Mofokeng, and Sebelebele, injecting pace and youth into the lineup.
Sundowns were forced into an early change when captain Themba Zwane limped off injured, replaced by Jayden Adams.
The midfield battle was intense, with Mokoena and Nduli dictating tempo for their respective sides.
What’s Next?
The second leg promises fireworks as both teams chase a spot in the final. With the tie finely poised, expect tactical tweaks and high drama when they meet again.
Ballocentre.com will be in Pretoria LIVE for the second leg!!!
Source: Ballocentre.com
Images: GETTY, Orlando Pirates FC, Sundowns FC, Goal.com
Kaizer Chiefs continued their strong start to the 2025/26 PSL season with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Polokwane City at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg.
⚽Tactical Notes
Assistant coach Khalil Ben Youssef led the team in the absence of Nasreddine Nabi, who was away due to a family emergency. His tactical tweaks, including the halftime substitution of Mduduzi Shabalala for Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, helped inject more energy into the attack.
âš˝ Key Moment
The breakthrough came in the 79th minute when Siphesihle Ndlovu found the back of the net, sealing the win for Amakhosi. Despite a sluggish first half, Chiefs grew into the game and controlled possession, finishing with 67.2% of the ball.
Kaizer Chiefs now sit comfortably with six points from two matches, showing signs of a revitalized campaign. Polokwane, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly to avoid slipping further behind.
Source: Redaction Ballocentre.com
Images: Supersport, Kaizer Chiefs
After two consecutive defeats to Sekhukhune United (0–1) and Marumo Gallants (1–2), Orlando Pirates find themselves in unfamiliar territory — bottom of the 2025/26 PSL table with zero points. It’s only the second time in the Premier Soccer League era that the Buccaneers have started a season without a single point after two rounds.
For a club that finished second three years in a row, this is more than a stumble — it’s a strategic and psychological setback.
What’s Going Wrong?
Excessive Rotation
Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has made drastic changes between matches, benching key players like Relebohile Mofokeng, Sipho Mbule, and even captain Nkosinathi Sibisi. While rotation is normal early in the season, the lack of continuity has disrupted team chemistry and tactical coherence.
âš˝ Missed Opportunities
Defensive Instability
Ouaddou’s decision to pair Lebone Seema (23) and Mbekezeli Mbokazi (19) at centre-back, leaving out Sibisi, has raised eyebrows. The backline has looked vulnerable, especially in transitions and aerial duels.
Lack of Midfield Control
While Sihle Nduli and Mbule have shown promise, the midfield lacks a consistent anchor. Pirates have struggled to control tempo, especially in the second half of both games.
Possible Solutions
1. Restore Core Leadership
Reintegrating Sibisi, Mbule, and Mofokeng into the starting XI could stabilize the team. These players offer experience, composure, and tactical familiarity.
2. Settle on a Tactical Identity
Ouaddou must define a clear system — whether it’s a 4-2-3-1 or a 3-4-2-1 — and stick with it. Constant tinkering is eroding confidence and rhythm.
3. Improve Finishing
Pirates need sharper execution in the final third. Investing time in finishing drills and building chemistry between Maswanganyi, Appollis, and Radiopane could unlock goals.
🔥 What’s Next?
MTN8 Semifinal vs Mamelodi Sundowns (Saturday): A high-stakes clash that could either galvanize the squad or deepen the crisis.
The team must treat the next few games as a mini-reset. With upcoming fixtures against Stellenbosch, Orbit College, and Chippa United, there’s a chance to rebuild momentum before the title race slips away.
The Final Word
It’s early days, but history shows that slow starts in the PSL can be costly. Ouaddou must act decisively — not just tactically, but emotionally — to restore belief in a squad that still has the talent to compete at the top.
This man might be fired very soon
Source: Redaction Ballocentre.com
Images: Supersport, Orlando Pirates FC
The 2025 edition of the MTN8 has reached its boiling point, with four teams left standing and two blockbuster semifinal clashes set to ignite South African football. With R10 million on the line and a place in the final at stake, the tension is palpable.
âš˝ Orlando Pirates vs Mamelodi Sundowns
Dates: Weekend of 16–17 August (two-legged tie)
This is the headline act — a clash between defending champions Orlando Pirates and league winners Mamelodi Sundowns. These two giants have dominated South African football in recent years, finishing first and second in the league for three consecutive seasons.
Pirates are chasing a third MTN8 title in four years, while Sundowns are desperate to end their recent cup drought.
Players to Watch:
Iqraam Rayners (Sundowns): Fresh off a brace against Richards Bay.
Thabiso Monyane (Pirates): A rising star in the fullback role with attacking flair.
âš˝ Stellenbosch FC vs Sekhukhune United
Dates: Weekend of 16–17 August (two-legged tie)
This semifinal offers a different flavor — Stellenbosch, last year’s losing finalists, face Sekhukhune United, who are making their first-ever semifinal appearance in the MTN8.
Players to Watch:
Jayden Adams (Stellenbosch): The midfield engine with a knack for clutch moments.
Chibuike Ohizu (Sekhukhune): A physical forward who thrives in high-pressure games.
This year's MTN8 semifinals promise fireworks, narratives, and legacy moments. Whether it’s a heavyweight showdown or a Cinderella run, South African football fans are in for a thrilling ride.
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We leave you with highlights of the quarterfinals
Source: Ballocentre.com
Images: Centralnews.co.za ; BackpagePix ; Supersport ; Diskiflava TV