Orlando Pirates boss relishes MTN8 title defense against Sundowns

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 is relishing the blockbuster clash against Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.

The Buccaneers head into the highly-anticipated match looking to clinch a record-extending fifth consecutive top eight title, while the Brazilians are gunning for a first domestic cup title since the 2021/22 campaign.

Notably, Pirates eliminated Sundowns in the semi-final of the competition last season - this after piping them to the trophy in the 2023/24 season with a penalty shootout victory following a goalless draw after extra time.

With the two teams now set to renew their rivalry in a cup final yet again, Ouaddou expressed delight at taking part in the humdinger, stating that his troops are raring to go as they look to defend their crown.

“The preparation is going well, I think it's a good event. We are really excited to play again this kind of game, to defend this title. We had around two weeks to prepare this game,” said the Pirates boss.

"Of course, we missed some of the international players like many teams, but at least the rhythm, the focus was on that game and especially what a fantastic event we're playing in Durban, we know it's a city where we have a lot of support.

The 47-year-old tactician dubbed the looming encounter as a battle of champions, with Pirates coming into the tie as league champions while Sundowns are the reigning African champions.

“We are playing a game with two champions, fantastic event for the country, for all the lovers of football and of course our aim is just to go in that game with the big ambition, willing to do well to show the best phase of Pirates,” Ouaddou added.

"And of course, we want to give a very good image of football in South Africa. I think what is important is that the MTN8 cup is watched all over the continent, let's say even in the world.

"So, it's important for the two teams to give a very good image of South African football, but very excited on my side, I feel a very good energy from our players, from the technical staff.

"We are waiting for our international players to come back to finalize the preparations and to play that game.

Whether Pirates will retain the MTN8 title at the expense of Sundowns remains to be seen as Miguel Cardoso will be looking to emerge victorious in his first domestic cup final in South African football.

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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