Orlando Pirates Set For MTN8 Showdown With Stellenbosch FC

Holifil

01 Apr, 2025

Orlando Pirates are set to face Stellenbosch FC in the MTN8 final on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Two key players may miss the match due to injuries sustained during the Premier Soccer League season.
The Buccaneers aim to create history by securing their third consecutive MTN8 title.

Hey there, soccer fans! If you're looking forward to a thrilling clash, you’re in for a treat. The Orlando Pirates are all set to go head-to-head with Stellenbosch FC in the MTN8 final. But here’s the twist—Pirates might have to take the field without two of their star players due to injuries. Let’s dive deeper into what’s happening on and off the pitch.

The Buccaneers put on a stellar performance in the semi-final, beating Cape Town City. This win sets up a highly anticipated showdown with the Stellies, who themselves triumphed over Mamelodi Sundowns in the semi-final stage. The action unfolds at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium this Saturday.

Now, here’s the big picture: Orlando Pirates are chasing history. They’re aiming for their third MTN8 title in a row, a feat that no team in the Premier Soccer League has yet achieved. This is their chance to etch their name in the annals of South African soccer history. But, as they say, all roads lead through the final.

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Orlando Pirates may find themselves without two key players for the MTN8 final against Stellenbosch FC on October 5, 2024. Photo: Phill Magakoe. Source: Getty Images

MTN8 Final: Pirates on Edge Over Fitness Concerns

Hold on to your hats, folks. According to FARPost, Orlando Pirates assistant manager Mandla Ncikazi has confirmed that two key players, Monnapule Saleng and Olisa Ndah, haven’t been training with the team ahead of the MTN8 final. This news has sent ripples through the Buccaneers camp.

Saleng and Ndah were absent during Pirates' narrow 1-0 victory over Richards Bay FC in the Betway Premiership, and their participation in the final remains uncertain. If both players fail their late fitness tests, the team may have to reshuffle their lineup. Gilberto could step in for Saleng, while Innocent Maela might take Ndah’s place on the field.

“Unfortunately, I don’t have a full report just yet,” said the assistant coach. “They haven’t trained for a few days and are currently undergoing treatment in the medical room. We’re hoping they’ll pass the late fitness test, but as of now, I’m not entirely sure.”

“There was training this morning, but I wasn’t present, so I don’t have the full medical update. All I can do is pray that we’re at full strength for such a tough opponent. This game is going to be a battle, and we need everyone firing on all cylinders.”

Riveiro Reflects on Pirates’ Hard-Fought Victory Over Richards Bay

Coach Speaks Out

Earlier, Briefly News reported that coach Riveiro opened up about Pirates’ gritty 1-0 win over Richards Bay in the PSL. The Buccaneers coach admitted that his team faced challenges in overcoming the Natal Rich Boys at the King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium. It wasn’t an easy ride, and the Buccaneers had to dig deep to secure the three points.

In a candid moment, Riveiro acknowledged the difficulties his team encountered. “It wasn’t the kind of game we’d planned for,” he said. “Richards Bay gave us a tough time, and we had to work extra hard to get the result. But that’s soccer. Every game is different, and we’re learning as we go along.”

As the Buccaneers prepare for the MTN8 final, the team will need to channel this resilience and determination. With history on the line, every player will need to bring their A-game. Let’s hope the Buccaneers can overcome the injury setbacks and deliver a performance that fans will remember for years to come.