Previewing Key Figures Before the Final Match of MTN8 Tournament
The footballing world in South Africa is abuzz with excitement as Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns prepare to face off in the Top 8 final this weekend. This will be the 14th time these two powerhouse teams meet in the competition, with each team having won four times and five draws from the previous 13 encounters.
Orlando Pirates have a rich history in the Top 8, having appeared in a record-breaking 18 finals overall, second only to Kaizer Chiefs' 21 appearances. In the PSL era, they are appearing in their ninth Top 8 final, more than any other team. Pirates have also won the Top 8 the most times in the PSL era, with five victories to their name. Their first triumph came way back in 1972, making them the first-ever winners of the Top 8.
Sundowns, on the other hand, have a strong record in the Top 8 as well. They have won the competition four times, with victories in 1988, 1990 pre-PSL era, and then 2007 and 2021 in the PSL era. In the PSL era, they are appearing in their seventh Top 8 final, as many as Chiefs and SuperSport.
Interestingly, only Orlando Pirates have been to more Top 8 finals in the PSL era than Sundowns. This weekend's final will be Sundowns' 11th Top 8 appearance overall, behind only Chiefs (21) and Pirates (18).
The Top 8 competition has a long and storied history, with the first edition taking place in 1972. The competition has been held 49 times in total, with 25 editions before the PSL was established. This weekend's final will mark the 24th edition of the Top 8 in the PSL era.
Intriguingly, only two clubs in South African football history have retained the Top 8 title - Kaizer Chiefs (1981-82 and 1991-92) and Orlando Pirates (2010-11 and 1996 - 2000, as there was no competition between 1997 & 1999). Neither of these teams have repeated this feat in the bullet points presented.
As the two teams prepare to face off this weekend, football fans across the country are eagerly anticipating a thrilling encounter. The Top 8 final promises to be a fitting climax to the 2022 football season.
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