The quarter-final fixtures for the 2024–25 MTN8 tournament have been officially confirmed, with league champions Mamelodi Sundowns drawn against Richards Bay in one of the most anticipated matchups.
Richards Bay, who secured eighth place in the DStv Premiership standings, will be entering the MTN8 quarter-finals for the first time since their promotion to the top flight in the 2022–23 season.
The KwaZulu-Natal-based side faces a daunting challenge in the form of Sundowns, who finished at the summit of the league table and are strong contenders for this season’s title.
For Richards Bay, it presents a rare opportunity to cause an upset against one of the most dominant sides in South African football.
Meanwhile, defending champions Orlando Pirates begin their title defence against Polokwane City.
The Buccaneers, having won the MTN8 in three consecutive seasons, are aiming to extend their reign with a fourth successive triumph.
Their opponents, Polokwane City, will be keen to improve on last season’s performance, which saw them knocked out at the quarter-final stage by Sundowns.
Stellenbosch FC will look to build on last season’s impressive run, which ended in a heartbreaking final defeat to Orlando Pirates.
They now face AmaZulu FC, who make their return to the competition after a two-year absence.
The KwaZulu-Natal side last featured in the MTN8 in 2022, also falling short against the eventual winners, Pirates.
With both sides having endured painful final losses to the Soweto giants, their clash promises to be a spirited encounter with redemption on the line.
Sekhukhune United, appearing in the MTN8 for just the second time in their history, are set to take on TS Galaxy.
Babina Noko will be eager to improve on their debut showing last season, which ended in a first-round defeat to Cape Town City.
TS Galaxy, a side known for their tenacity, will provide a stern test as both clubs aim for a breakthrough into the semi-finals.
Confirmed MTN8 2024–25 quarter-final fixtures:
- Mamelodi Sundowns vs Richards Bay
- Orlando Pirates vs Polokwane City
- Stellenbosch FC vs AmaZulu FC
- Sekhukhune United vs TS Galaxy
The dates and venues for these fixtures are yet to be announced, but anticipation is already building for what promises to be a thrilling opening round in South Africa’s prestigious knockout tournament.
