MTN8 Quarter-Final Predictions: Expert Tips for Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns
- The 2025/26 MTN8 tournament kicks off this weekend with four quarter-final clashes across two days
- Defending champions Orlando Pirates and league winners Mamelodi Sundowns headline the opening fixtures
- Briefly News had an exclusive interview with veteran football journalist Mandla Biyela, who shared his predictions for each match
The MTN8 roars into life this weekend with four quarter-final clashes scheduled over two days. Orlando Pirates, the defending champions, kick off proceedings on Saturday afternoon when they host Polokwane City, followed by an all-PSL battle between Sekhukhune United and TS Galaxy.
Sunday features Stellenbosch up against AmaZulu, while reigning Betway Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns round off the weekend against Richards Bay.
Source: Getty Images
In an exclusive interview with Briefly News, respected journalist Mandla Biyela shared his insights and score predictions for all four fixtures.
What are the predictions for the matches?
Orlando Pirates vs Polokwane City
PAY ATTENTION: stay informed and follow us on Google News!
Saturday, 15:00 | Live on SuperSport
“Pirates have built a strong cup pedigree. This competition almost feels like theirs every year,” Biyela said. “Despite having a new coach, this shouldn’t be a difficult game for them.”
The Buccaneers, now under the leadership of Abdeslam Ouadou, are expected to feature new signing Sipho Mbule and newly appointed captain Nkosinathi Sibisi. Biyela believes the Soweto giants will cruise to victory.
Prediction: Pirates 2–0 Polokwane City
Sekhukhune United vs TS Galaxy
Saturday, 18:00 | Live on SuperSport
“This is a tightly contested one. Both sides are ambitious, but TS Galaxy have often had the upper hand in this fixture,” Biyela noted.
While both clubs have made promising strides, TS Galaxy’s stability and tactical execution could prove decisive.
Prediction: TS Galaxy 1–0 Sekhukhune United
Stellenbosch vs AmaZulu
Sunday, 15:00 | Live on SuperSport
“Usuthu have made wholesale changes to their squad. That will likely affect their chemistry,” said Biyela.
Stellenbosch, who lost Fawaaz Basadien to Sundowns, still retain the core of last season’s team. Head coach Steve Barker is targeting silverware, and Biyela sees this as a strong opportunity.
Prediction: Stellenbosch 3–1 AmaZulu
Mamelodi Sundowns vs Richards Bay
Sunday, 18:00 | Live on SuperSport
“Sundowns are fresh from their Club World Cup trip to the USA and matched Borussia Dortmund toe to toe,” said Biyela.
“They’re the best squad in the league and the team to beat.”
With depth and class across every department, the Tshwane giants are expected to dominate this clash with minimal resistance.
Prediction: Mamelodi Sundowns 3–0 Richards Bay
What is the prize money for grabs?
In a show of continued support for fans and communities, the prize pool for this year’s tournament has been increased. Fans will now stand a chance to win a share of R10 million, up from R8 million in 2024. Additionally, MTN will donate R20,000 to a selected charity for every goal scored during the competition, further incentivising attacking football and community impact.
Source: Twitter
SAFA called to take women's football seriously
Briefly News previously reported that women's football in South Africa deserves to be taken seriously by those in charge of the game.
This follows Banyana Banyana’s underwhelming performance at the recently concluded Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
PAY ATTENTION: Follow Briefly News on Twitter and never miss the hottest topics! Find us at @brieflyza!
Source: Briefly News
