Orlando Pirates will commence their MTN8 title defence against Polokwane City when the 2025/26 domestic premiership begins in a month’s time.
Although the official kick-off date for the Betway Premiership season is August 8, Sunday World can confirm that the MTN8 will initiate on the first weekend of August, featuring eight clubs that concluded the previous season in the top eight, vying for the coveted title.
Pirates have triumphed in this tournament three consecutive times. They augmented their collection to an impressive 13 trophies within this competition, will face the unpredictable Limpopo side that has demonstrated its mettle with consecutive qualifications for the MTN8.
Technical team
In preparation for the upcoming season, Pirates have bolstered their technical team with the appointment of Abdeslam Ouaddou as their new head coach, succeeding Jose Riveiro.
It remains to be seen whether the 46-year-old Moroccan-Frenchman can effectively fill the substantial void left by the highly regarded Riveiro, who managed to capture the admiration of the discerning Pirates’ supporters.
Beyond the new coaching appointment, Pirates have also ventured into the transfer market, opening their substantial chequebook to enhance their squad with the acquisition of several notable players, including Yanela Mbuthuma (from Richards Bay), Masindi Nemtajela (Marumo Gallants), Tshepang Moremi (Amazulu), Nkosikhona Ndaba (Richards Bay), Sinoxolo Kwayiba (Chippa United), Tshepo Mashiloane (Baroka), Sihle Nduli (Stellenbosch), and Sipho Mbule.
MTN8 fixtures
As is customary in MTN8 fixtures, the club that finished atop the log will face the team that concluded the season in the eighth position. Consequently, this means Mamelodi Sundowns will take on Richards Bay, Stellenbosch FC will engage with AmaZulu, and Sekhukhune United will confront TS Galaxy.
The complete schedule and venues for the competition will be unveiled during the official draw. And the date of which is yet to be announced by the league.
Kaizer Chiefs, the club with the most illustrious history in this competition, will be absent for the second consecutive year. This after concluding last season in a disappointing ninth position.
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