The MTN 8 Cup continues this weekend with the decisive second legs of the semi-finals taking place on Saturday the 23rd of August. Both matches are set to be competitive as the four sides aim to book their place in the final. Below we break down each game from a betting perspective.
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS vs ORLANDO PIRATES – Loftus Versfeld, 15:00
The stage is set for a thrilling decider after Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates played out a tense 1-1 draw in the first leg at Orlando Stadium. Sundowns struck first in the opening half with their trademark precision in attack, but Pirates showed their resilience, finding a crucial late equaliser to ensure the tie remains wide open. That result leaves everything to play for in the second leg, with both sides knowing one decisive moment could swing the aggregate in their favour.
Recent Form
Sundowns come into this clash off the back of another clinical league performance, claiming a 2-0 away win over Magesi in midweek. Their depth and defensive organisation once again stood out, underlining why they remain the team to beat domestically.
Pirates also enjoyed a much needed confidence boost in the league, edging Stellenbosch 1-0 at home, their 1st points of the season.
Path to the Semi-Finals
- Sundowns dismantled Richards Bay 4-0 in the quarterfinals, flexing their attacking strength and squad quality.
- Pirates eased past Polokwane City 2-0, showing the balance of defensive discipline and attacking sharpness that has seen them lift this trophy three years in a row.
BETTING – Click here to bet
Sundowns 1.85
Draw 3.20
Orlando Pirates 4.30
VERDICT:
With the first leg ending in a stalemate, this tie is delicately poised. Sundowns will back themselves to finish the job on home soil, where their consistency and depth often shine through. However, Pirates’ pedigree in knockout football makes them dangerous opponents capable of upsetting the script. Expect another tense, cagey affair, but the home advantage could give Sundowns the slight edge in what promises to be a closely fought battle.
BET: Sundowns to win at 1.85
SEKHUKHUNE UNITED vs STELLENBOSCH – Peter Mokaba Stadium, 18:00
The first leg between Sekhukhune United and Stellenbosch could prove decisive, with Stellies taking full control of the tie thanks to a 2-0 home victory. They struck twice before halftime, dominating possession and dictating the tempo to leave Sekhukhune with a mountain to climb in the return leg.
Road to the Semi-Finals
- Sekhukhune United showed their resilience in the quarters, producing a dramatic comeback to overturn a 2-0 deficit and beat TS Galaxy 3-2 at home.
- Stellenbosch edged AmaZulu 3-2 after extra time, their attacking flair proving the difference in a high-scoring thriller.
Latest League Results
- Sekhukhune head into the second leg on the back of a confident 3-0 league win over Orbit College.
- Stellenbosch, however, suffered a setback in midweek, going down 1-0 away to Orlando Pirates, a reminder that they can be exposed under pressure.
BETTING – Click here to bet
Sekhukhune United 2.60
Draw 3.00
Stellenbosch 2.70
VERDICT:
Sekhukhune will push hard in front of their fans, but Stellenbosch’s two-goal upper hand gives them a significant edge this weekend and they will be able to adopt a defensive approach.The draw looks a big runner.
BET: The Draw at 3.00
Note: All prices are correct at the time of writing but are subject to change.
