Mamelodi Sundowns ended Orlando Pirates’ dominance of the MTN8 on Saturday night, beating the Buccaneers 2–0 in a tense final at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
The victory handed Sundowns their first MTN8 title since 2021 and ended Pirates’ hopes of securing a historic fifth consecutive crown.
Pirates started brightly and looked dangerous in the opening stages, but Sundowns soon took control. Teboho Mokoena opened the scoring in the 11th minute after Pirates failed to properly clear a set-piece situation, giving the Brazilians a 1–0 lead.
The Buccaneers had a major opportunity to level the game in the second half when they were awarded a penalty. Gamphani Lungu stepped up in the 63rd minute, but Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams produced an important save to keep his side ahead.
Pirates continued pushing for an equaliser, with Williams again making a crucial contribution as Sundowns’ defence held firm.
The game was eventually put beyond doubt in stoppage time. Sundowns were awarded a penalty after Siyanda Ndlovu was brought down inside the box, and Iqraam Rayners calmly converted to make it 2–0.
The result marked a major moment for coach Miguel Cardoso, who secured his first domestic trophy with Sundowns. The victory also earned the club the R10 million MTN8 winners’ prize.
For Pirates, the defeat brought an end to their remarkable run in the competition, while Sundowns walked away as the new MTN8 champions after a composed performance on the big stage.
Main Image: iDiski Times
