In the MTN8 semifinal, Orlando Pirates were drawn against Mamelodi Sundowns after both teams secured convincing victories in their respective quarterfinal matches. This matchup has sparked massive excitement, not only among Pirates and Sundowns supporters but also from fans of other clubs across the country.
As the hype builds, a growing debate has emerged: Is the Pirates vs Sundowns fixture now more exciting than the iconic Soweto Derby?
In the latest SuperSport documentary Giants, episode 2, Orlando Pirates midfielder Makhehleni Makhaula revealed that younger players in the squad were actually more excited to face Sundowns than to play in the Soweto Derby. His comment has added fuel to the ongoing conversation.
There’s no denying that Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates are currently the two best-performing teams in South Africa. With Sundowns sitting at the top of the league and Pirates closely behind last season, their matches are increasingly seen as title deciders. Both sides boast strong, well-balanced squads filled with talent, making each clash a battle of dominance.
While the Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs carries a deep historical and cultural significance, with massive fanbases and one of the biggest rivalries on the African continent, it is largely built on legacy. That history cannot be replaced.
However, based on recent performances and the competitive edge both clubs bring to the pitch, the Pirates vs Sundowns fixture is quickly growing into a major showdown in its own right. It may not yet have the legacy of the Soweto Derby, but in terms of quality, stakes, and excitement, it’s arguably becoming just as important, if not more so, to today’s generation of football fans.