Orlando Pirates news: Mbatha, Makgopa, Sibisi, R10 million

Orlando Pirates return to action next weekend when they face Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final.

The highly anticipated clash will take place at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on 10 October 2026 and will be the first meeting between the two sides this season.

In the Betway Premiership, Masandawana currently sit at the top of the table, leading the Buccaneers by just one point. Pirates, however, have a game in hand over their rivals.

Saturday’s final will have plenty at stake, with the winner likely to gain a significant psychological advantage in the title race.

Pirates could also welcome some familiar faces back into the squad.

Orlando Pirates eyeing win over Sundowns

Thalente Mbatha and Evidence Makgopa have been sidelined with injuries for the past two months and have not featured in recent weeks. Both players are in contention to return for Saturday’s clash, although their lack of match fitness makes a starting berth unlikely in a game of such magnitude.

Mbatha, in particular, has been an important figure in the Pirates midfield. The midfielder enjoyed an impressive run last season, with the Buccaneers unbeaten in matches he started.

He was also absent when Orlando Pirates suffered a 2-1 defeat to Sundowns earlier this year.

In defence, meanwhile, the Buccaneers are sweating over the fitness of captain Nkosinathi Sibisi. The 31-year-old is currently with Bafana Bafana but has been unable to feature due to a knock.

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou will be hoping his captain recovers in time to return to club duty fully fit.

With R10 million on the line, the Buccaneers will be determined to make history by lifting a record fifth consecutive MTN8 title.