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Orlando Pirates vs Mamelodi Sundowns Betting Tips - MTN8 Cup final to go the distance

ralph-staniforth
Editor
Last updated: Fri 09 Oct 2026 02:10
Orlando Pirates, unbeaten in 25 matches and aiming for a fifth straight MTN8 trophy, face Mamelodi Sundowns, who have won six of their last seven games and recently clinched the FIFA Intercontinental Cup. Their last four encounters have seen three draws, with both teams showing strong form. Pirates have important players returning, while Sundowns face injury doubts ahead of the highly anticipated clash. The article suggests a likely 1-1 draw, based on recent history and current momentum.
Ralph Staniforth 3 hours ago
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  • Orlando Pirates are unbeaten in their last 25 matches and are seeking a fifth consecutive MTN8 title.
  • Mamelodi Sundowns have won six of their last seven games and recently lifted the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.
  • Three of the last four meetings between these teams ended in 1-1 draws; another draw is anticipated.
orlando pirates mamelodi sundowns
Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns to draw in 90 minutes in Saturday's MTN 8 Final (Getty Images).

This is a enormous clash between what is clearly the best two teams in the country. They have drawn three of their last four encounters as well while Pirates are unbeaten in their last 25 games. This could go the distance.

Key Stats - Pirates Unbeaten in 25


  • Orlando Pirates are unbeaten in 25 matches. 
  • Orlando Pirates have drawn 1-1 in their last 3 matches vs Mamelodi Sundowns.
  • Mamelodi Sundowns are undefeated in their last 4 matches vs Orlando Pirates.
  • Mamelodi Sundowns are undefeated in 13 of their last 14 matches.

Three Draws in Last Four


Mamelodi Sundowns hold a 24-18 advantage vs Orlando Pirates across 58 previous meetings with 16 draws.

After three 1-1 draws in a row, Sundowns won 2-1 away at Pirates in the league when the clubs last met in February 2026.

Pirates Aiming for Fifth Straight MTN8


Pirates have ten wins and two draw in 12 matches so far this season. They’re on 19 points from seven league fixtures and are chasing a fifth MTN8 trophy in a row. 

Bucs won 4-0 at Kruger United before a 0-0 draw away at La Cure Waves of Mauritius. A 3-1 home victory followed at home vs La Cure Waves, before a 2-0 win over Durban City. 

Their last match saw a 2-0 win at Marumo Gallants. Pirates only had 10 shots in the match and needed a 74th-minute set piece to seal the three points.

Sundowns with Six Wins in Seven Matches


Sundowns have won six of their last seven matches. They’re chasing just a second MTN8 crown in the last 19 years, having lifted silverware in their last match. 

A 2-0 home win over Milford in the league was followed by a 2-1 PSL win at Golden Arrows. After beating Siwelele 3-0, they scored in the dying moments to rescue a 1-1 draw at Chippa United.

Their last match saw a 2-1 win over Saudi giants Al Ahli as they won the FIFA Intercontinental Cup. Sundowns had 68% possession and allowed just one shot on target in the second half. 

Predicted Lineups & News


Orlando Pirates (4-3-3): Chaine; Sebelebele, Seema, Sibisi, Hotto; Dansin, Mthiyane, Mokobodi; Appollis, Mbuthuma, Moremi.

Orlando Pirates have striker Evidence Makgopa and midfielder Thalente Mbatha back in training.  Sihle Nduli is still several weeks away from a return in the engine room. 

Mohau Nkota is nearing a return after knee surgery to boost the wide areas. Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is still without Andre De Jong in the number ten role. 

Mamelodi Sundowns (4-2-3-1): Williams; Matuludi, Khoza, Ndamane, Hotto; Allende, Mokoena; Morena, Santos, Matthews; Leon.

Sundowns have four major injury doubts for this match. Grant Kekana was substituted in the last game and is 50-50 to be fit to start in defence here. 

Left back Aubrey Modiba and midfielders Teboho Mokoena and Bathusi Aubaas need late fitness tests. Keanu Cupido is still absent in defence, but Arthur Sales is available in attack after surgery.

Verdict

I see a draw and a 1-1 correct score bet in regulation time. 

Best Bet1: Draw Full Time Result @37/20 at 10bet - 3 Units
Best Bet2: Pirates 1-1 Sundowns Correct Score @9/2 at bet365 - 1 Unit
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ralph-staniforth
Ralph Staniforth

Sports Editor, South African Sports Writer • 10+ Years of Experience, South African Sports Specialist

Ralph is a passionate sports journalist and coach based in Cape Town. Find his coverage across the biggest rugby union and cricket events as well as South African soccer and tennis.


Ralph is from South Africa and studied Sports Science post school at ETA (Education Teachers Academy) in Cape Town.
He has always had a great passion for sport and this led him into the world of sports journalism, while coaching on the side. 

Since 2012 Ralph has worked as a journalist and covered many topics from business to sport.

Over the last decade and more, he has interviewed numerous top rugby and cricket players and coaches in South Africa.

You can follow Ralph on LinkedIn and Muckrack and find him featured on Mzansiwins, Bets.co.za and Cape Media Corporation.

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