Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch will do battle for the 2024 MTN8 crown. Here’s all you need to know before kickoff.
Orlando Pirates aiming for a historic treble
Pirates are seeking to claim an unprecedented treble of wins in the MTN8 after winning the last two editions of the tournament. Indeed, they’ve won three of the last four. Stellenbosch, meanwhile, got their first-ever taste of silverware last season by winning the Carling Knockout. These sides pushed each other in the league last term; Pirates eventually pipping Stellies to second place on the final day of the season.
MTN8 final Key details
- What? MTN8 final
- Who? Orlando Pirates vs Stellenbosch FC
- Where? Moses Mabhida Stadium
- What time? 18:00 kickoff.
- Is the match televised? Yes, on SABC Sport and DStv.
Likely Bucs starting XI
Olisa Ndah and Monnapule Saleng are both major injury doubts. It’s a toss-up between Gilberto and Kabelo Dlamini to start on the right-hand side of the attacking midfield trio. Gilberto started against Richards Bay but Dlamini made a match-winning cameo off the bench. Coach Jose Riveiro must also make a difficult decision between whether to start Tshegofatso Mabasa or Evidence Makgopa. Mabasa is usually the first-choice but Makgopa was picked to start the recent Nedbank Cup final. Big-game player Saleng will start if he’s deemed fit enough.
Predicted XI: Chaine; Monyane, Sesane, Sibisi, Hotto; Makhaula, Mbatha; Dlamini, Maswanganyi, Mofokeng; Mabasa
Stellies danger man?
Stellenbosch has started the campaign in a somewhat indifferent form. A win, a draw and a loss from their opening three Betway Prem assignments highlights their inconsistency so far. They drew last time out against Polokwane with a goal from Lehlohonolo Mojela. The 28-year-old moved to the Winelands in July for big money from TS Galaxy. While he’s unlikely to directly step into the goal-scoring boots of Iqraam Rayners, an immediate return on investment will be expected.
Are Pirates going to beat Stellies to win the MTN8 crown or can the Winelands club continue to punch above their weight and spring a surprise?
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