Youthful Orlando Pirates ready for Mamelodi Sundowns in MTN8 final showdown
Orlando Pirates’ young squad, backed by returning senior players, aims to overcome Mamelodi Sundowns and secure an unprecedented fifth consecutive MTN8 title.
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.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
