Bucs to cross swords with United tonight

Tonight sees the kick-off of the much anticipated MTN 8 competition. In the first match of the tournament, Orlando Pirates challenge defending league champions SuperSport United.

Eight teams will fiercely contest the R8 million first prize money. The so-called big teams are favourites to win the inaugural tournament. But they should expect stiff competition from the likes of log winners SuperSport United and Ajax Cape Town. The winner-takes-all prize money will motivate and put the teams under pressure.

Pirates coach Ruud Krol says is not too happy with the winner-takes-all approach. "It's the first time that I have this experience. In every tournament, the finalists get less money. They always get something - that is for sure."

Pirates are among the hot favourites to win the MTN 8 after being crowned the Telkom Charity champions. But Krol believes every team in the competition is capable of doing well.

Tomorrow Kaizer Chiefs take on Santos, and Moroka Swallows pit their skills against Ajax Cape Town. On Sunday Mamelodi Sundowns will host Free State Stars.

Meanwhile, Collins Mbesuma has finally signed a three-year contract with the big spending Mamelodi Sundowns. This ends weeks of speculation that he was joining other Premier Soccer League clubs, including Moroka Swallows. Mbesuma's business manager confirmed that the player has put pen to paper after training with the club for the last three weeks.

There had been reports that the Zambian, who scored an incredible 35 goals while at Kaizer Chiefs, was overweight, and carrying a chronic knee injury. Mbesuma could miss Sunday's MTN 8 match against Free State Stars due to his work permit.