Sundowns looking to end domestic cup drought against Pirates

Orlando Pirates appear confident ahead of Saturday's MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium. The Buccaneers have historically held the upper hand in cup finals against Sundowns. The most recent meeting in the top eight final saw Pirates win on penalties after a goalless draw in 2023. They also defeated Sundowns in the 2024 Nedbank Cup final.

Sundowns defender Grant Kekana acknowledges that Pirates have dominated them in cup competitions, with his team also falling short in the MTN8 semi-final last season. Kekana emphasizes his team's motivation, stating it has been a long time since they suffered such a setback. Despite their struggles against Pirates, Pirates edged them 2-1 in a Betway Premiership clash.

Kekana anticipates another tactical battle when the two teams face off, emphasizing the importance of tactical prowess in the upcoming match. He hopes the encounter will be an enjoyable one for both the players and the supporters, vowing to give their all until the final whistle. The fixture presents an opportunity for Sundowns to break their domestic cup drought, with their last victory coming in the 2022 Nedbank Cup.

They have not won the MTN8 since 2021. Kekana insists that Sundowns play competitions to dominate, not just to compete. The defender expresses confidence in his team's determination to end the spell of failure and rise to the occasion.