MTN 8: Orlando Pirates vs Stellenbosch FC
By Sello Masilo
Today at 18:00, the stage is set at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium for one of the most anticipated football events of the year, the 2024 MTN8 final. Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC are ready to go head-to-head in a sold-out encounter, with fans eager to witness history in the making. For Orlando Pirates, this is their chance to claim a third consecutive MTN8 title, a feat never before achieved by a South African club. Meanwhile, Stellenbosch FC is looking to spoil the Buccaneers’ party and make their mark by lifting their first-ever MTN8 trophy.
Orlando Pirates: The Kings of Cup Competitions
Orlando Pirates come into this final as strong favourites. Under coach Jose Riveiro, the Buccaneers have established themselves as cup specialists, winning back-to-back MTN8 titles in 2022 and 2023. They have been in impeccable form throughout the tournament, dispatching SuperSport United and Cape Town City with identical 3-1 victories . This momentum extends beyond the MTN8, as the Buccaneers are unbeaten in their last 10 matches across all competitions .
Pirates’ assistant coach, Mandla Ncikazi, highlighted the team’s determination to defend their title, while acknowledging the challenge posed by Stellenbosch. “We respect them big time,” Ncikazi said. “They have earned their spot in the final, and we know it will be a tough game”  .
Stellenbosch FC: The Underdogs with a Point to Prove
Stellenbosch FC’s journey to the final has been nothing short of remarkable. In only their first-ever appearance in an MTN8 final, Stellies have shown their resilience and tactical prowess, particularly in their semi-final victory over reigning league champions Mamelodi Sundowns . With their solid defensive performances and strategic approach led by coach Steve Barker, they’ve proven they can compete with the best.
While Orlando Pirates may be the favourites, Stellies are not to be underestimated. Players like goalkeeper Sage Stephens and striker Andre de Jong have been instrumental in their success this season. As Barker noted, “We know Pirates are strong, but we’ve built a team that believes in itself” .
Key Players to Watch
For Orlando Pirates, all eyes will be on Deon Hotto and Monnapule Saleng. Hotto has been vocal about his desire to help Pirates secure their third consecutive title, and his leadership on the field will be crucial . Meanwhile, Saleng, though facing injury concerns, remains a significant attacking threat .
Stellenbosch FC will look to their star goalkeeper, Sage Stephens, to keep Pirates at bay. His performance in the semi-finals against Sundowns was a masterclass in shot-stopping, and he will need to be at his best again to deny Pirates’ potent attack. Andre de Jong and Fawaaz Basadien will also be key figures in Stellenbosch’s efforts to penetrate Pirates’ defence  .
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