The stage is set for an exhilarating MTN8 semi-final showdown as Gauteng’s football giants, Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, prepare to battle Western Cape powerhouses Cape Town City and Stellenbosch FC. The excitement is palpable as fans anticipate thrilling clashes, with each team hungry to secure a spot in the prestigious final. Orlando Pirates look to continue their MTN8 dominance, while Cape Town City seeks to disrupt their charge. Meanwhile, a resilient Mamelodi Sundowns side that brings dominance and flair to the mix face the challenge of overcoming a tough Stellenbosch FC, adding to the intrigue of these high-stakes fixtures.

The MTN8 semi-finals are set to ignite as Orlando Pirates, Cape Town City, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Stellenbosch FC battle for a coveted spot in the final. 

Orlando Pirates, last year’s champions, will aim to defend their title and make history with Coach Jose Riveiro in becoming MTN8 Champions for three consecutive seasons. 

Orlando Pirates resumes their MTN8 title defence on Wednesday evening with a highly anticipated clash against Cape Town City at DHL Stadium. Fresh off their CAF Champions League triumph just four days ago, the Buccaneers shift focus back to domestic glory as they kick off the first leg of their semi-final showdown. With both teams eager to gain an advantage in the two-legged tie, Pirates will be looking to draw first blood against the men from the Mother City, setting the stage for a thrilling contest.

Pirates revisit a familiar rivalry with Cape Town City, their last cup showdown dating back to 2020. In that encounter, a solitary goal by Terrence Dzvukamanja secured the Buccaneers’ spot in the semifinals, propelling them toward their first of three MTN8 titles in the last four seasons. With both teams claiming a victory each in their previous knockout matchups, this clash promises to add another thrilling chapter to their competitive cup history.

Cape Town City secured their spot in the MTN8 semi-finals with a dramatic 1-0 win over Sekhukhune United, thanks to an 88th-minute strike from Darwin Gonzalez. However, as they prepare to face defending champions Orlando Pirates, City knows they’ll need to sharpen their attack and find the back of the net more often if they hope to dethrone the Buccaneers. 

Bafana Ba Style are gearing up for a thrilling MTN8 semi-final clash against Stellies, following a dramatic 1-0 quarter-final victory over Polokwane City, courtesy of an own goal by Thabang Matuludi in extra time. However, the Brazilians will need to step up their game in front of goal, as they face a tough Stellenbosch side without their goalkeeper Denis Onyango, who was sent off in the quarter-finals. With the stakes higher than ever, Sundowns will be determined to find the back of the net and secure their spot in the final.

Stellenbosch FC is back in the MTN8 semi-finals for the second consecutive season, ready to turn last year’s heartbreak into glory. After a narrow 2-2 aggregate loss to eventual champions Orlando Pirates, who advanced on away goals, Stellies are hungry for redemption as they look to destabalise Sundowns for a spot in the final. 

Stellenbosch, fresh off a 3-1 quarter-final victory over TS Galaxy with goals from Andre de Jong, Jayden Adams, and Fawaaz Basadien, will be looking to make history under Steve Barker by advancing past Downs. Sundowns, bolstered by the deadly form of new signing Iqraam Rayners, who has netted three goals in the competition, will face Stellenbosch for the first time in this cup. With stars like Themba Zwane and Ashley Du Preez also tied with Rayners for the second-most goals, this matchup promises high drama and intense competition.

Played over two legs, these encounters introduce a unique blend of strategy and intensity. The four teams must carefully balance their approach across home and away ties, where even the smallest detail could tip the scales. Orlando Pirates and Cape Town City were supposed to play on Tuesday evening and the match was postponed due to bad weather in Cape Town to Wednesday, August 28. The fixture will kick off at 18h00. Stellenbosch FC face the daunting task of overcoming Mamelodi Sundowns also on Wednesday evening at the Lucas Moripe Stadium, kick off is at 19h00.

With the dust settling from a pulsating quarter-final stage, four teams remain, all eager to claim the first trophy of the 2024-25 season. The semifinal phase promises to be nothing short of spectacular, with each side preparing for the high-pressure battles ahead.