Rodney Ramagalela and Fabian McCarthy make MTN8 final prediction
PSL icons Rodney Ramagalela and Fabian McCarthy have weighed in on the highly anticipated MTN8 final between Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC, offering their predictions on which team they believe will emerge victorious.
The MTN8 final is set for Saturday [today], 05 October 2024, at the sold-out iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
Pirates and Stellenbosch FC will clash for the first trophy of the new 2024/25 season, with the match kicking off at 6PM. Former SA football stars Ramagalela and McCarthy, serving as ambassadors of the MTN8, are eagerly anticipating the showdown.
Both Pirates and Stellenbosch FC have showcased impressive form in their respective journeys to the MTN8 final. Pirates secured their spot with victories over SuperSport United [3-1] in the quarter-finals and Cape Town City FC [3-1 on aggregate] in the semi-finals over two-legs.
Meanwhile, Stellenbosch FC eliminated TS Galaxy [3-]) in the quarterfinals and upset defending league champions Mamelodi Sundowns [2-0] on aggregate in the semi-finals.
WHAT RODNEY RAMAGALELA AND FABIAN McCARTHY SAID ABOUT THE MTN8 FINAL
Both Ramagalela and McCarthy have backed Stellenbosch to clinch the title. They both believe that Pirates, the defending champions, are under pressure and the Stellies have nothing to lose.
“The players [from Pirates and Stellenbosch] have been preparing since the day they knew they will be in the final. They are the best as we speak; now it’s up to them on who has prepared well and who has players with fresh minds to deliver,” Ramagalela told FARPost.
“Stellenbosch is going to frustrate Pirates, that’s my opinion, but I think it’s going to be a very close and interesting encounter. I see Stellenbosch winning the match 1-0.
“Pirates want to make history by winning the MTN8 title three times in a row. On the other end, Stellenbosch wants to create their own history by winning the title for the first time. That’s where Lehlohonolo Mojela comes in. I think he will be key in the match tomorrow, and he’s a player who will make a difference.”
Meanwhile, Chiefs legend McCarthy added that he sees a thrilling 2-2 draw after 90 minutes and extra-time with Stellenbosch winning on penalties.
“Stellenbosch have been doing well, and the fans are in for an entertaining game. Stellies have nothing to lose, and a team like that is very dangerous, and they can match Pirates pound for pound,” McCarthy told FARPost.
“Pirates are under pressure to win as everybody expects them to win, so I hope Stellies win and I’m backing them to take this one.
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