MTN8 final a battle of champions - Abdeslam Ouaddou

10.10.26 12:00 MTN 8 Cup South Africa

Orlando Pirates

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Mamelodi Sundowns FC

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Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says the MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday (18h00) will be a battle of champions.

The Buccaneers head into the match as defending champions, having clinched a domestic treble last season, comprising the Carling Knockout Cup and the Betway Premiership title in addition.

On the other hand, the Brazilians are the reigning CAF Champions League winners, and recently won the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup at the expense of Al Ahli SC of Saudi Arabia before the international break.

With the highly-anticipated match on the horizon, Ouaddou sees an opportunity to advertise South African football, stating that it will be two of the best teams in the PSL going toe-to-toe.

“I think the two teams will come with a good mindset, I think we are in a good timing, either for them or for us. The two teams were doing well before the FIFA break,” said the Pirates boss.

"Hopefully we'll have a good game from two strong teams, let's say the two best teams in the country, if we can add Kaizer Chiefs as well but two strongest teams - the champions, it's two champion teams.

"I think it will be important for us to give a good image, to present a good phase of Pirates. So, for me the match will be very important for the two teams.

Notably, Pirates will be gunning for an unprecedented fifth consecutive top eight crown, while Sundowns are in a quest for a first domestic cup title since the 2021/22 campaign under Rulani Mokwena and Manqoba Mngqithi.

The Sea Robbers previously beat the Tshwane giants in the MTN8 final in the 2023/24 season, before sending them packing in the semi-final last term - securing the victories via a penalty shootout on both occasions

Whether Ouaddou will help Pirates retain the MTN8 cup or Miguel Cardoso will end Sundowns' drought for a local cup remains to be seen, in what promises to be an electrifying spectacle.

Hlayisani Magoro

Editorfr, en

Football journalist from South Africa covering African football news, exclusive stories and key events while sharing insights with passionate fans of the game.

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Orlando Pirates

Mamelodi Sundowns FC

MTN 8 Cup South Africa