Former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Phelelani Mpangase has predicted who will be crowned the 2023 MTN8 champions between Masandawana and Orlando Pirates.
The Brazilians progressed to the final after a 3-2 win on aggregate in the semi-finals over Kaizer Chiefs two weeks ago.
Meanwhile, the Buccaneers went through with an away goal rule following a 2-2 overall result against Stellenbosch FC.
The Soweto giants were simply sensational on route to the prestigious MTN8 title last season, defeating Masandawana in the semi-finals and AmaZulu in the final to lift their 11th title.
This year, the defending champions and Sundowns, who have won the competition four times in their history, lock horns at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, 7 October at 6 pm.
PHELELANI MPANGASE POINTS OUT ORLANDO PIRATES’ WEAKNESSES
A retired former Masandawana versatile player, Mpangase has pointed out some aspects his former club can take advantage of in the battle against the Sea Robbers.
“It will be very, very tough for them because of Peter Shalulile and Ribeiro Costa’s pressure upfront, should they play at the same time,” Mpangase told FARPost.
“Tapelo Xoki and Nkosinathi Sibisi are not comfortable on the ball. I believe Sundowns will be able to put pressure on them. They will be able to press and score.
“The two (Xoki and Sibisi) are more of the same player, so with no one who can marshal their defence, it will be very difficult for them at the back.
“I still believe that they need someone who will be a leader, somebody who will be able to lead and marshal their defence line. They are both man markers, they play the same style.”
Meanwhile, Mpangase is also worried about Bafana Ba Style’s defence and Mothobi Mvala’s lack of comfort on the ball. He believes a player like Zakhele Lepasa could be problematic on the day.
“I’m also a bit worried about Sundowns’ defence. If the team fails to dominate possession, it will be very difficult,” said the former Platinum Stars defender.
“Players like Zakhele Lepasa could be a problem. He can out-run the likes of Mothobi Mvala because Mvala is a bit shaky if you put pressure on him.
“Mvala is a hard worker, he’s a man marker. He’s not really comfortable on the ball, so I think he will be the weakest link if they fail to dominate possession.”
SUNDOWNS WILL BE CROWNED THE MTN8 CHAMPIONS ACCORDING TO MPANGASE
Nonetheless, overall, Mpangase believes that Rulani Mokwena and his Sundowns’ charges stand a chance of winning the MTN8 title despite the qualities Pirates possess.
“But, it’s going to be a very tough game, looking at both teams doing very well, with superb coaches,” Mpangase added.
“Orlando Pirates have got excellent players, a very good coach. But I think Sundowns will be the champions. I think Sundowns might not play fluent football, but at the end of the day, they will win the cup.
“Rulani [Mokwena] would love to win the cup against his former team. He will be eager to win the MTN8 as the sole head coach.”
Story by Clifton Mabasa
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