Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says his side is ready to defend its MTN8 crown when they face Mamelodi Sundowns in Saturday’s final at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
The Buccaneers continued preparations at Rand Stadium this morning, with Pirates chasing a fifth consecutive MTN8 title after winning the previous four editions, a record in the history of the competition.
Ouaddou said the team has used the past two weeks to prepare for the final despite several players being away on international duty.
Our preparation is going well. We are really excited to play again this kind of game and to defend this title,” said Ouaddou.
The coach expects a high-quality contest between two champions and said Pirates have studied Sundowns closely, focusing on their strengths, weaknesses and how to approach the game in both attack and defence.
Ouaddou also stressed the importance of mentality in a cup final, highlighting concentration, discipline and efficiency in both penalty areas.
In cup games you don’t have to concede, because it’s direct elimination. You have to be focused. The concentration for me is something very, very important.”
He believes the opening 15 minutes could be crucial and says Pirates must remain composed throughout the match.
Midfielder Makhehleni Makhaula, meanwhile, believes the mood in the Pirates camp points towards another trophy.
“I’m sensing a win. The guys have really shown up and they’ve been great. I’m sensing us lifting the trophy,” said Makhaula
Thalente Mbatha, who has returned from injury, is equally confident in Pirates’ youthful squad and believes the team has enough quality to continue its strong run.
We have enough quality to believe in where our team is. We’re a team full of youngsters, and we believe these youngsters are truly doing well. As you can see, we’ve only conceded one goal in the league,” said Mbatha.
Mbatha believes the emergence of several young starters is also a positive for South African football.
We have probably five youngsters who are starting games, and it’s something that’s really good for South African football.”
He added that winning the final would be significant as Pirates look to add more history to the club.
Captain Thapelo Xoki has backed the youngsters to handle the occasion, insisting they have earned their place in the team.
They’re not at this stage by chance. They’ve worked hard, they’ve earned their strides and the club has entrusted them with the responsibility of representing the club,” said Xoki.
Xoki added that experienced players and the coaching staff will guide those facing their first final.
Everyone who wears Pirates is ready. It’s years of preparation and years of sacrifice. The moment is just for them to take it.”
Ouaddou also provided a positive injury update on Sihle Nduli, confirming that players returning from injury are back on the field but are not yet guaranteed to feature against Sundowns.
The good news is, step by step, he is coming back onto the field,” he said.
Pirates will now look to turn their confidence into another historic MTN8 triumph when they meet Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.