Orlando Pirates will line up for an unprecedented MTN8 treble but do so without a key defender against Stellenbosch at Moses Mabhida.
Orlando Pirates must reshuffle their back four
Deano Van Rooyen is ineligible for the MTN8 final after representing Stellies in this competition already this term. Meanwhile, Olisa Ndah and Monnapule Saleng have major injury doubts. It’s a toss-up between Gilberto and Kabelo Dlamini to start on the right-hand side of the attacking midfield trio if Salent doesn’t pass a late fitness test. Gilberto started against Richards Bay but Dlamini made a match-winning cameo off the bench. Coach Jose Riveiro must also make a difficult decision between whether to start Tshegofatso Mabasa or Evidence Makgopa. Mabasa is usually the first-choice but Makgopa was picked to start the recent Nedbank Cup final. Big-game player Saleng will start if he’s deemed fit enough, and Maela’s experience could see him stay in the side too. Plenty of big choices for Mr Riveiro.
Predicted XI: Chaine; Monyane, Sesane, Sibisi, Hotto; Makhaula, Mbatha; Dlamini, Maswanganyi, Mofokeng; Mabasa
Big day for Monyane in a big game
Thabiso Monyane will start at right-back in the absence of Van Rooyen. Monyane has never been the most adventurous full-back around, but he’s a consistent performer and a hard-worker, as well as a likeable and respected player in the dressing room. There were rumours he has signed a new deal with the defending MTN8 and Nedbank Cup champs, but those remain unconfirmed.
Historic treble on the cards for Jose Riveiro
Pirates are seeking to claim an unprecedented treble of wins in the MTN8 after winning the last two editions of the tournament. Indeed, they’ve won three of the last four. Stellenbosch, meanwhile, got their first-ever taste of silverware last season by winning the Carling Knockout. These sides pushed each other in the league last term; Pirates eventually pipping Stellies to second place on the final day of the season.
Kickoff from Moses Mabhida on Saturday 05 October is at 18:00.
Are Pirates going to beat Stellies to win the MTN8 crown?
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