MTN8

The MTN8 – as we know the cup competition today – was first contested in 1972 with the 48th edition set for its semi-finals this weekend. Photo: Backpagepix

No MTN8 Soweto derby final say bookmakers!

There is unlikely to be an all-Soweto final to this season’s MTN8 tournament, if bookmakers are to be believed.

MTN8

The MTN8 – as we know the cup competition today – was first contested in 1972 with the 48th edition set for its semi-finals this weekend. Photo: Backpagepix

There is unlikely to be an all-Soweto final to this season’s MTN8 tournament, if bookmakers are to be believed.

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As extensively reported by The South African website, following Monday’s draw for the semi-finals, Orlando Pirates will take on defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns while Kaizer Chiefs will do battle with AmaZulu in the two semi-finals.

Kaizer Chiefs are a record 15-time MTN8 winners

The matches will be played over two legs with the Buccaneers and Amakhosi hosting the first legs on the weekend of 1/2 October.

Exact dates and kick-off times will be confirmed in due course.

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Leading South African bookmakers Hollywoodbets have published their odds for the first leg ties.

Mamelodi Sundowns are 14/10 favourites to pick up a crucial ‘away’ win, while Orlando Pirates can be backed at 2/1. The draw after 90 minutes is also on offer at 2/1.

Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs are 9/10 favourites to emerge victorious at the FNB Stadium while AmaZulu are an attractive 33/10 for an upset victory.

The draw is available at 21/10.

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The overall winner will walk away R8 million richer.

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The MTN8 as we know it to date has been in existence since 2008.

Prior to that between 2003 and 2007 it was known as the SAA Super 8 and it started off as the BP Top 8 from the inaugural season in 1972 until 2002.

Kaizer Chiefs have been crowned champions a record 15 times (but not since 2014), while Orlando Pirates have won on 10 occasions, most recently in 2022.

Mamelodi Sundowns’ name appears four times on the trophy while AmaZulu are still looking for their first MTN8 title – in any format.

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