MTN and PSL Launch 2026 MTN8 Cup

MTN and PSL officially launch 2026 MTN8 tournamentMTN and the Premier Soccer League (PSL) have officially launched the 2026 MTN8 tournament, marking the start of another season of knockout football as South Africa’s top eight clubs prepare to compete for the first trophy of the new campaign.

The tournament will once again be played under the “There Can Only Be One” campaign, reflecting the winner-takes-all nature of the competition where every match is a do-or-die encounter.Speaking at the launch, MTN South Africa General Manager for Brand and Marketing, Kholofelo Magagane, said the MTN8 remains a competition that brings South Africans together through their shared passion for football while creating opportunities to reward customers, celebrate football heroes and make a meaningful impact in communities.

Beyond the action on the field, MTN has introduced several fan engagement initiatives for this year’s tournament. Through its Recharge and Win campaign, eligible prepaid customers stand a chance to win a share of R10 million in prizes, including fan experiences, MoMo vouchers, grocery vouchers and fuel vouchers.

The Last Fan Standing competition will also return, with one supporter set to win a R1 million grand prize.

Community development remains a key part of the tournament through initiatives such as Goals for Charity, Dream Bags, Last Legend Standing and Last Journalist Standing. As part of the Goals for Charity campaign, MTN will donate R20,000 for every goal scored during regulation time, with the proceeds going towards charitable causes.

The 2026 MTN8 gets underway on 8 and 9 August, with defending champions Orlando Pirates opening their title defence against newcomers Durban City.

Mamelodi Sundowns will take on Polokwane City, AmaZulu will host Sekhukhune United, while Kaizer Chiefs make their return to the competition with a quarter-final clash against Lamontville Golden Arrows after missing out on last season’s tournament.