Makhehleni Makhaula delays retirement after intervention by Orlando Pirates boss Irvin Khoza
Makhehleni Makhaula is grateful to Orlando Pirates chairman Irvin Khoza for convincing him to extend his career following last season’s success, saying he still has the legs and hunger to succeed at the club.
Orlando Pirates are targeting a monumental achievement as they prepare to face Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final on Saturday. The Buccaneers are gunning for the record-breaking fifth consecutive MTN8 title, having secured the trophy four times in a row last season by defeating Stellenbosch FC 3-0. Piraeus defender Thapelo Xoki, returning from an injury lay-off, believes the team is determined to rewrite history by clinching the fifth title in a row.
The Buccaneers aim to maintain their dominance over Sundowns in knockout cup competitions, having triumphed in the MTN8 final in 2023 and eliminated the Brazilians twice in the semi-finals in 2022 and 2025. Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou acknowledges the significance of the match, stating that while the psychological edge from past successes may provide a mental advantage, the reality of the game lies in the team's preparation, strategy, and ability to exploit their opponents' weaknesses.
Tickets for the final sold out quickly, with the match set to commence at 6pm at Moses Mabhida stadium on Saturday.
Written by urgent.news from SABC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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