MTN8: ORLANDO PIRATES VS POLOKWANE CITY LIVE STREAM – 2 AUGUST 2025
The curtain rises on the 2025/26 South African football season this weekend. All eyes will be on the MTN8 as Orlando Pirates kick off their title defence against Polokwane City in Saturday’s quarterfinal clash at Orlando Stadium. Kick-off is set for 15h00.
This highly-anticipated encounter sees the reigning champions, who finished second in last season’s Premiership standings. They will be taking on a spirited Rise and Shine side that secured a top-eight finish by ending the campaign in seventh spot.
LIVE STREAM HERE:
A Fresh Era Begins for the Buccaneers
While Pirates have lifted the MTN8 trophy in each of the past three seasons, this year marks the start of a new chapter under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. He replaces the departed Jose Riveiro. The Moroccan mentor now shoulders the responsibility of guiding the Soweto giants to an unprecedented fourth straight MTN8 crown.
The Buccaneers have been active in the transfer market during the off-season, ushering in a wave of new talent. Notable additions include creative midfielder Sipho Mbule, and dynamic winger Oswin Appollis — ironically snapped up from Polokwane City. They also brought in Sinoxolo Kwayiba, Sihle Nduli, and Kamogelo Sebelebele.
However, the squad has seen several high-profile exits. Mohau Nkota made a move to Saudi outfit Al Ettifaq. Meanwhile, the club parted ways with experienced campaigners Innocent Maela, Miguel Timm, Paseka Mako, Thabiso Monyane, Zakhele Lepasa, and Phillip Ndlondlo. Fan favourite Monnapule Saleng has been loaned out to Orbit College in a surprising twist.
Probable Line-up: Pirates
Chaine, Van Rooyen, Sibisi, Mbokazi, Hotto, Makhaula, Mbule, Kwayiba, Appollis, Mofokeng, Makgopa
Polokwane Reshuffle After Key Departures
For Polokwane City, Saturday’s clash offers a chance to upset one of the country’s giants. It is an opportunity to make a bold early-season statement. Yet the team faces challenges of their own, with Appollis and dependable goalkeeper Manuel Sapunga both departing the club during the off-season.
Newly appointed coach Ouaddou is no stranger to the pressures of top-flight football, but he will be wary. Polokwane is a side with little to lose and everything to prove.
The Limpopo outfit’s pre-season preparations have been kept under wraps, with no official match results released. That leaves much to the imagination in terms of form and tactical tweaks ahead of this big showdown.
Probable Line-up: Polokwane City
Bwire, Nkaki, Ndlovu, Nikani, Mathonsi, Raphadu, Maphangule, Kambala, Letshedi, Dlamini, Ramabu
Pre-Season Contrast and Head-to-Head Stats
Pirates return to local action after completing a pre-season tour of Spain. The Sea Robbers played four matches abroad. They registered a single victory, one draw, and two defeats. It’s a mixed bag that may yet prove useful as match sharpness builds.
In their previous 19 meetings across all competitions, Pirates boast a dominant record against Rise and Shine. They have achieved 10 wins, 7 draws and just 2 defeats.
Saturday’s fixture also presents a reunion of sorts. Appollis will line up against his former teammates for the first time since switching camps. This emotional subplot adds an extra layer to the drama.
All Eyes on Soweto
With a new coach at the helm and a retooled squad, Pirates are out to prove they remain the kings of the MTN8. However, don’t count out Polokwane City. This is a team that’s shown it can defy the odds and punch above its weight.
As the new season kicks off, this fixture promises fireworks and intrigue. It’s a true taste of what’s to come in the months ahead.
Related article: MTN8 Quarterfinals: Five Signings Who Could Dominate
