Orlando Pirates Chase Historic Fourth Straight MTN8 Title

Orlando Pirates are gearing up to make history again as they launch their defence of the MTN8 trophy, aiming to become the first club ever to win four consecutive titles in the competition. They begin the 2025/26 campaign in Saturday’s quarter–final against Polokwane City, an encounter that sets the tone for what could be another historic MTN8 run.

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Three-Peat Legacy Under Jose Riveiro

Under Spanish coach Jose Riveiro, Pirates became the first team in PSL history to win the MTN8 three times in a row, lifting the trophy in 2022, 2023, and 2024. The 2024 final was symbolic, a come-from-behind 3-1 victory over Stellenbosch FC at Moses Mabhida, where Monnapule Saleng ignited the turnaround before Relebohile Mofokeng sealed their place in folklore. That title marked their 13th overall in the competition.

Riveiro also secured back-to-back Nedbank Cups and guided Pirates to consecutive runner-up finishes in the Premiership and a CAF Champions League semi‑final berth, firmly establishing his legacy as the club’s most successful recent era.

Ouaddou’s New Era Begins

This season, Pirates embark on a fresh chapter under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who officially took charge in June 2025. At 46, the former Morocco international brings international pedigree and clear tactical ambition to the Soweto giants but still awaits his first major coaching trophy. His debut fixture comes this Saturday when Pirates host Polokwane City in the MTN8 quarter-final at Orlando Stadium.