MTN8 Final: Five talking points as Pirates and Sundowns clash for the title

The Buccaneers will be looking to extend their record to five consecutive top eight title wins when they battle the African champions in the finale in Durban on Sunday, as Downs look to end a four-year run without winning a domestic cup trophy.

Will history repeat itself?

The two teams have met twice in the tournament since the 2023/24 final which Pirates won on penalties following a goalless draw, before last season's two-legged semi-final encounters which both ended 1-1, with Bucs again claiming victory via a penalty shoot-out.

AmaBhakaniya boast an unbeaten record against Masandawana in the MTN8 after seven matches and have won five of their seven finals played at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Bucs clean sheets streak

Orlando Pirates head into the final on the back of an impressive seven match clean sheet streak in domestic competitions, having last conceded a goal in the 1-1 draw against AmaZulu in August.

PSL defender of the season Lebone Seema has been a pillar at the back for Abdeslam Ouaddou's side and should be brimming with confidence following his display for Bafana Bafana against Egypt in Cairo last Sunday.

However, Bucs have conceded in their last eight fixtures against Masandawana but are yet to lose in a cup clash against the Tshwane giants since the 2020/21 season.

Masandawana's attacking threat

Both teams go into the final after having scored 19 goals in all matches this season, but the majority of Sundowns goals have been scored largely by the attacking players as opposed to Bucs who have various contributors in different positions.

New attacking signings Antonio van Wyk and Cassius Mailula lead the way for Downs with four goals apiece whilst Brayan Leon, Tashreeq Matthews, Iqraam Rayners, Khutlwano Lethlaku and Bennet Mokoena all chipping in with goals.

Head coach Miguel Cardoso will be spoilt for choice upfront for the final, with all attackers available and showing good form.

Cup final experience

Mamelodi Sundowns recently won their FIFA African Asian Pacific Cup title victory over Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli to give their new players a chance to experience a final this season.

In contrast, Pirates current squad has seen a number of new players feature at the beginning of the season following departure of key players Rele Mofokeng, Patrick Maswanganyi and Deano van Rooyen.

Mpho Padime, Kabelo Kgositsile, Simphiwe Selepe, Cemran Dansin, Neo Rapoo and Thapelo Mokobodi have yet to feature in cup final in the Premier Soccer League.

Fitness issues

Mamelodi Sundowns trio Aubrey Modiba, Bathusi Aubaas and talisman Teboho Mokoena all returned with injuries from their recent participation with Bafana Bafana at the 2027 African Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The three players face a battle against time to recover for what should be a gruelling clash that could go into extra-time.

Meanwhile, Bucs skipper Nkosinathi Sibisi could feature for his side despite having suffered a knock during the national team's preparation for the Guinea clash, while Thalente Mbatha and Evidence Makgopa have recovered and are available for Saturday's showdown.