History-Making Buccaneers Retain MTN8 Title
Buccaneers Retain MTN8 Title
September 13, 2025 – Mbombela Stadium
Orlando Pirates made South African football history on Saturday night, defeating Stellenbosch FC 3-0 in the MTN8 Final 2025 to claim the trophy for an unprecedented fourth consecutive year.
The Buccaneers, who beat the same opponents in last year’s final, underlined their dominance in domestic cup competitions with a resounding extra-time victory.
Pirates Dominate Early Exchanges
Despite wholesale changes from last season’s final, Pirates looked sharp from the start.
- Thalente Mbatha and Deon Hotto combined for the game’s first chance, with Mbatha firing wide.
- Relebohile Mofokeng and Sipho Mbule also tested Stellenbosch keeper Sage Stephens, who kept the visitors alive in the first half.
Stellenbosch’s best opening came just before halftime, when Andre de Jong looked poised to shoot inside the box but was shut down by the Bucs defence. The sides went into the break goalless.
Second Half Battle
The Soweto Giants continued to press after the restart:
- Evidence Makgopa came closest, denied from point-blank range by Stephens.
- At the other end, Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine produced a superb save in the 70th minute to deny Sanele Barns.
With the match still deadlocked at full time, extra time was required.
Super Subs Seal the Trophy
Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s substitutions changed the game completely:
- Just after the restart, Oswin Appollis set up Tshepang Moremi, who finished coolly for the breakthrough.
- Minutes later, Moremi forced another save before Mofokeng linked with substitute striker Tshegofatso Mabasa, who doubled the lead with a composed finish.
- Moremi then struck again, latching onto another assist from Appollis to make it 3-0 and seal the victory.
The goals proved decisive as Pirates lifted the MTN8 trophy yet again, cementing their dynasty.
Match Facts
- Final Score: Orlando Pirates 3-0 Stellenbosch (AET)
- Venue: Mbombela Stadium
- Scorers: Moremi (ET 91’, ET 110’), Mabasa (ET 104’)
Pirates XI: Chaine, Seema, Mbokazi, Lebitso (Moremi 74’), Hotto, Nduli, Mbatha (Nemtajela 90+1’), Mbule (Appollis 61’), Sebelebele, Mofokeng (Sibisi 106’), Makgopa (Mabasa 74’).
Key Takeaways
- Record Breakers: Orlando Pirates are the first club to win the MTN8 four times in a row.
- Impact Players: Super subs Appollis, Mabasa, and Moremi turned the game around in extra time.
- Missed Chances: Stellenbosch held firm for 90 minutes but couldn’t match Pirates’ firepower in the end.
The Buccaneers have written themselves into the history books with a fourth straight MTN8 title. Stellenbosch fought bravely, but Pirates’ experience, depth, and tactical nous proved too much.
For punters, the prediction of Pirates to Lift the Trophy came through in style—proof once again that when it comes to knockout football, the Soweto giants are the safest bet.
Highlights Table
| Event Type | Details | Minute(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | Tshepang Moremi (Appollis assist) Tshegofatso Mabasa (Mofokeng assist) Tshepang Moremi (Appollis assist) | ET 91’, ET 104’, ET 110’ |
| Key Saves | Stephens denied Makgopa (point-blank) Stephens double save from Hotto Chaine save vs Barns | 55’, 65’, 70’ |
| Free Kicks | Mbatha free kick (wide) Hotto direct shot (saved) | 6’, 63’ |
| Big Chances Missed | Makgopa header (off target) De Jong blocked inside box | 33’, 44’ |
| Sub Impact | Appollis (assist x2) Moremi (2 goals) Mabasa (1 goal) | ET period |
| Final Score | Orlando Pirates 3–0 Stellenbosch (AET) | Full Time |
FAQ MTN8 Final 2025
1. Who won the MTN8 Final 2025?
Orlando Pirates defeated Stellenbosch 3-0 after extra time at Mbombela Stadium.
2. How many times have Orlando Pirates won the MTN8?
Pirates have now won the MTN8 four years in a row (2022–2025), a new South African football record.
3. Who scored for Orlando Pirates in the final?
- Tshepang Moremi (91’, 110’)
- Tshegofatso Mabasa (104’)
4. Who was the man of the match in the MTN8 Final 2025?
Tshepang Moremi took the spotlight with two goals after coming off the bench.
5. What was the final score of the MTN8 Final 2025?
Orlando Pirates 3–0 Stellenbosch (after extra time).
6. Where was the MTN8 Final 2025 played?
At Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga.
7. Who did Orlando Pirates beat in the semifinals?
Pirates beat Mamelodi Sundowns on penalties after a 1-1 aggregate draw.
