Orlando Pirates favourites for MTN8 cup? Thalente Mbatha responds

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 midfielder Thalente Mbatha has shared thoughts on whether the defending champions are favourites for the MTN8 cup ahead of their clash against Mamelodi Sundowns in the final on Saturday.

The Buccaneers will be gunning for an unprecedented fifth consecutive top eight crown at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, while the Brazilians are in search of their first domestic cup title since the 2021/22 campaign.

Notably, Pirates pipped Sundowns to the MTN8 cup in the 2023/24 season, before sending them packing in the semi-final last term - winning on penalties on both occasions.

Mbatha, however, has dismissed claims that the Sea Robbers are favourites to lift the trophy, but insists the team will play the final with a clear objective of reigning supreme over Miguel Cardoso's side.

“I don't think so [that we are favourites], I believe that we work hard for everything we get and there's no luck in winning the finals. I believe that it's the hard work that we put here at Rand Stadium,” said the Bucs midfield dynamo.

"And we continue putting in the hard work, and we're still going to continue winning and I believe that it's something that's really going to play a good part for us if we win the final and we're going to play the final to win it.

"So, I believe that it's something that we should tell ourselves and it's the right attitude to give to the youngsters.

With Sundowns midfielders Teboho Mokoena and Bathusi Aubaas a doubt for the final after picking up injuries on national duty, the Bafana international says the uncertainty won't affect his preparations.

“I focus on whatever Orlando Pirates give us and I don't focus on the rivals. I play for Orlando Pirates and my main focus is on Pirates,” Mbatha added.

Having recently returned from an injury layoff, Mbatha will be eager to have a say in the humdinger MTN8 decider, with his last appearance dating back to the quarterfinals of the competition in August.

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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