Mayoyo backs Moses Mabhida Stadium as neutral setting for MTN8 final

Legendary former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Innocent Mayoyo has supported the Premier Soccer League’s decision to stage the 2026 MTN8 Cup final at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

Orlando Pirates will face Mamelodi Sundowns at the venue on Saturday, 10 October, despite questions from some supporters about the choice of Durban for the fixture.

The match will be the 11th MTN8 Cup final played at Moses Mabhida Stadium since 2010, while tickets for this year’s showpiece have already sold out.

Mayoyo believes the stadium’s neutral location makes it an appropriate choice for a contest involving two of South Africa’s most widely supported clubs.

“Pirates and Sundowns have supporters everywhere, and Moses Mabhida Stadium is the right venue for this match because it is neutral,” Mayoyo told KickOff.

“Even if the final was held in China, the stadium would be packed with Pirates and Sundowns supporters. Both clubs have fans there, so holding the match in KwaZulu-Natal does not deny their supporters the opportunity to watch them.”

The former goalkeeper also argued that Durban provides more than simply a venue for the 90-minute match, pointing to its accommodation and tourist attractions.

“If the aim is to serve the people, Moses Mabhida Stadium is a convenient venue for this match. Durban offers a wide range of hotels and accommodation, as well as holiday activities. Unlike Johannesburg, Durban is a holiday destination, so it serves many purposes,” he said.

“The match lasts only 90 minutes, so many people are travelling there for more than just the game. What matters is that the match is being held at a neutral venue.”

The final will bring together Gauteng rivals Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, with both clubs able to draw support from across the country and beyond.

For Mayoyo, that widespread following means the location should not prevent supporters from attending. He maintained that Moses Mabhida Stadium offers a suitable balance between neutrality, accessibility and the wider experience of travelling to Durban for the occasion.