MTN8 final set to test Bafana Bafana returnees

MTN8 fever takes full effect this weekend as Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC look to etch more history into their respective stories in a repeat of last year’s final. The international break is now behind us, but its impact may still be felt when the two sides clash at Mbombela Stadium (6pm kickoff).

Bafana Bafana have had a productive international window, collecting four points from a possible six in their 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Nigeria. Those results boosted the national cause, but the return of players to their clubs has left contrasting scenarios for the MTN8 finalists.

Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has had to prepare without as many as seven of his key players, while Stellenbosch’s Steve Barker only lost Thabo Moloisane to national team duty.

That allowed Stellies nearly two full weeks to plot the Sea Robbers’ downfall, while Ouaddou had to juggle a fragmented build-up and the pressure of chasing a record fourth successive MTN8 crown — a feat never achieved in South African football.

Still, the Moroccan tactician may take comfort from the exposure his men gained.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Oswin Appollis, Sipho Mbule and Thalente Mbatha all saw valuable minutes for Bafana, particularly in the high-intensity clash with Nigeria. That experience could sharpen them for the final, even if questions around fatigue linger.

Meanwhile, Kamogelo Sebelebele has been a revelation since joining Pirates, playing a huge hand in their journey to the final. Together with Relebohile Mofokeng and goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, he also spent the past fortnight in Bafana camp, logging a few minutes against the Super Eagles.

The trio may not have played much on matchdays, but the intensity of training and travel denied them the rest needed ahead of this final.

This will make the final intriguing, with Stellenbosch arriving rested and calculated, and the Sea Robbers coming in battle-hardened from international duty. Yet, in a showpiece final, such advantages often count for little — the intensity, pride, and stakes of the occasion can lift players beyond any fatigue or preparation gap. 

With Pirates chasing a historic MTN8 crown and Stellenbosch aiming for their first, the stage is set for a blockbuster clash under the Mbombela lights.