Orlando Pirates hope Oswin Appollis will rise and shine against Polokwane in MTN8 clash

Orlando Pirates will raise the curtain on the new South African football season by commencing their MTN8 title defence on Saturday, 2 August, at the iconic Orlando Stadium.

Pirates will play against Polokwane City in a scheduled 3pm kick-off at their Soweto fortress. The air will be thick with excitement as Pirates have their sights firmly set on clinching an unprecedented fourth title.

Last season, the Pirates made history by clinching the MTN8 title for a record third consecutive year, transforming into a formidable force by overcoming Stellenbosch in the final — a stunning 3-1 victory that showcased their resilience after conceding an early goal.

Now Pirates are ready to make their mark once again.

They have bolstered their squad, welcoming 10 new players, including the much-hyped Oswin Appollis.

During an interview with Pirates' website, the 23-year-old Bafana Bafana international has expressed his excitement at donning the iconic black and white jersey, stating, “It is a dream come true to play for Pirates; playing for this great club is an honour. I always watched Pirates on TV; wearing this jersey means a lot to me.”

His first match with the club will see him face his former team, Polokwane City, a circumstance that adds a layer of intrigue to the encounter.

Following Pirates' opener, fans can look forward to another thrilling encounter on the same day, as Sekhukhune United takes on TS Galaxy at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, with kick-off slated for 6pm.

 The excitement continues into Sunday, 3 August, when last year’s runners-up, Stellenbosch, host AmaZulu at Cape Town Stadium, beginning at 3pm.

The day wraps up with the league champions, Mamelodi Sundowns, fresh from their Club World Cup outing, going head-to-head against newcomers Richards Bay at 6pm.

As the MTN8 tournament looms, the Premier Soccer League (PSL) has yet to disclose the dates for the remaining rounds, along with the anticipated details of the new league season, leaving fans eager and buzzing with speculation.

Full MTN8 quarter-final fixture list:

Saturday, 2 August:

Orlando Pirates v Polokwane City - Orlando Stadium, 3pm 

Sekhukhune United v TS Galaxy - New Peter Mokaba Stadium, 6pm 

Sunday, 3 August

Stellenbosch FC v AmaZulu - DHL Stadium, 3pm

Mamelodi Sundowns v Richards Bay - Lucas Moripe Stadium, 6pm