The MTN8 tournament is set to kick off the 2025/26 season, and it's the perfect time to look back at some of the most unforgettable moments this competition has given us.
From stunning upsets to individual brilliance, these classic moments have defined the MTN8 over the years.
EIGHT MTN8 MOMENTS ONE CANNOT FORGET
1 – Arrows' Dominant 6-0 Final Win over Ajax (2009)
The 2009 MTN8 tournament was a memorable one, culminating in a final that will forever be etched in history. After navigating past AmaZulu and Free State Stars, Lamontville Golden Arrows faced Ajax Cape Town at Orlando Stadium.
What followed was a stunning 90 minutes of football that saw Arrows demolish the Urban Warriors 6-0. While the final score was lopsided, the tournament had its share of thrillers, including Ajax's epic 3-3 draw with Kaizer Chiefs in the semi-final. That second-leg encounter was a classic, with Brett Evans scoring a magnificent free-kick early on and Franklin Cale's late goal securing Ajax's progression on a 4-3 aggregate.
The final, however, was a one-sided masterclass that stands as one of the most dominant performances since the MTN8's inception.
2 – Brilliant Khuzwayo's Heroics for Kaizer Chiefs (2014)
Kaizer Chiefs fans were on edge when their star goalkeeper, Itumeleng Khune, was sidelined with an injury, leaving the young Brilliant Khuzwayo to take his place between the posts.
The pressure was immense, but Khuzwayo rose to the occasion, delivering a string of outstanding saves against arch-rivals Orlando Pirates in the final. His heroics were crucial in securing a 1-0 victory for Amakhosi, with Tefu Mashamaite scoring the decisive goal in the 28th minute.
Khuzwayo's performance ensured the R8 million prize went to Chiefs and solidified his reputation as a reliable shot-stopper in a high-stakes Soweto Derby.
3 – Platinum Stars' Upset Against Orlando Pirates (2013)
In 2013, Platinum Stars entered the MTN8 final as clear underdogs against a formidable Orlando Pirates side at a rain-soaked Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Despite the Buccaneers being heavy favourites, Dikwena held firm, forcing the match into a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation time. In a testament to their resilience and determination, the North West side triumphed on penalties, shocking Pirates and hoisting the trophy.
This victory was a classic David-versus-Goliath tale, proving that in cup football, a team's underdog status can sometimes be its greatest strength.
4 -Oupa Manyisa's Clutch Performances for Pirates (2012)
The 2012 MTN8 tournament was defined by the brilliance of Oupa Manyisa. The midfielder wrote himself into Orlando Pirates folklore by scoring a spectacular 107th-minute winner against Kaizer Chiefs in the final—a long-range shot that skidded off the turf and past Itumeleng Khune.
This victory was particularly sweet for the Bucs, marking their first major cup final win over their arch-rivals, Chiefs since 1988.
Manyisa had also been the man of the moment in the semi-final against Mamelodi Sundowns, where he scored a sensational long-range rocket from 40 meters out to secure the tie on away goals. His two stunning goals cemented his legacy as a big-game player.
5 – Bidvest Wits Demolishing Mamelodi Sundowns (2017)
In a final that defied all expectations, Bidvest Wits completely outplayed Mamelodi Sundowns to win 3-0 at Mbombela Stadium in 2017.
The result was a massive shock, as the Brazilians were riding high on confidence after their CAF Champions League triumph in a couple of months ago.
However, Wits were relentless from the start, delivering a dominant and clinical performance that left the African champions stunned. This unexpected victory showcased Wits' tactical superiority and determination, making it one of the most memorable MTN8 finals in recent history.
6 – Monnapule Saleng's Rise to
Stardom (2022/23)
The 2022/23 MTN8 will forever be remembered as the tournament where Monnapule Saleng announced himself to the world.
In the semi-final second leg against Sundowns, a closely contested tie was blown wide open by the previously unheralded winger. Saleng, who was not a key player at the time, assisted Kermit Erasmus's first goal before scoring a sensational brace to send the Sea Robbers to the final.
His heroics didn't stop there; he went on to score the winning goal against AmaZulu in the final, cementing his place as a Pirates legend and the tournament's standout star.
7 – Pirates' Underdog Victory Over Sundowns (2023/24)
In the 2023/24 final, Mamelodi Sundowns were the clear favorites, but Orlando Pirates, under the guidance of coach Jose Riveiro, had a different plan. They tactically frustrated the Brazilians, holding them to a goalless draw and forcing the match into a penalty shootout.
Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine was the hero, making a couple of crucial saves to secure a stunning victory for the Soweto giants. This win was a testament to Pirates' spirit and tactical discipline, proving that the underdog can always triumph on a big stage.
8 – Relebohile Mofokeng's Match-Winning Performance (2024/25)
The 2024/25 MTN8 final saw a young star step up to the plate. Relebohile Mofokeng, who started on the bench against Stellenbosch, was brought on in the second half to change the game.
He immediately made an impact, providing an assist for fellow substitute Tshegofatso Mabasa to score the opener. Not content with just one contribution, Mofokeng then scored a goal himself to seal a 3-1 victory for Pirates.
His performance off the bench was a masterclass in game-changing heroics and a perfect example of a young talent rising to the occasion when his team needed him most.
