Five key storylines as Orlando Pirates face Sundowns in MTN8 final

Orlando Pirates will face Mamelodi Sundowns in a sold-out MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, with both sides aiming to claim the first domestic trophy of the season.

Pirates are seeking an unprecedented fifth consecutive trophy, while Sundowns are attempting to end a four-year wait for success in a domestic knockout competition.

Here are five key facts ahead of the final.

Pirates chasing another record

The Buccaneers will play in a record fifth successive MTN8 final after winning the previous four editions.

Victory would take their total number of top-eight trophies to 15, matching the competition record held by their rivals Kaizer Chiefs.

Sundowns targeting a fifth MTN8 title

Mamelodi Sundowns last won the competition in 2021 and will be bidding for their fifth MTN8 trophy.

The final will also be Miguel Cardoso’s first domestic cup final since he joined the club in 2024. The coach will hope to lead Masandawana to their first knockout-cup success in four years.

Moses Mabhida has been a happy venue for Pirates

Moses Mabhida Stadium will stage the MTN8 final for the 11th time.

Pirates have a strong record at the venue in this competition. They have played seven matches there, winning five and losing two.

The final has been contested twice before

Pirates and Sundowns have previously met twice in the top-eight final.

Sundowns won their first meeting 1-0 in 2007, when the competition was known as the SAA Super Eight. Pirates took the honours in the 2023 edition.

Sundowns have a familiar core from their previous defeat

Sundowns will be seeking revenge after losing the past two finals to Pirates.

The club could have 12 players in their squad who were involved in the Nedbank Cup final defeat by the Buccaneers two years ago. They are Ronwen Williams, Themba Zwane, Tashreeq Matthews, Sphelele Mkhulise, Thapelo Morena, Denis Onyango, Grant Kekana, Mothobi Mvala, Marcelo Allende, Aubrey Modiba, Bathusi Aubaas and Teboho Mokoena.

Aubrey Modiba, Bathusi Aubaas and Teboho Mokoena will be involved if they pass late fitness tests.

Pirates, meanwhile, have six players from their 2024 team available for the final: Sipho Chaine, Thalente Mbatha, Makhehlene Makhaula, Deon Hotto, Evidence Makgopa and Nkosinathi Sibisi.