Mahlatsi ‘Skudu’ Makudubela has explained how this season’s Carling Knockout fate could tilt either side as his former clubs, Orlando Pirates and Marumo Gallants, clash in Saturday’s final at Peter Mokaba Stadium.
Pirates have carved themselves a glowing reputation as Cup specialists in recent years, clinching five major trophies under Jose Riveiro in three seasons. His successor, Abdeslam Ouaddou, has carried on that path by claiming the MTN8 just three months into the Buccaneers’ job.
Going into Saturday’s Carling Knockout final, Pirates are buoyed by their Betway Premiership lead, breaking what had become the norm for Mamelodi Sundowns to reach the festive holidays at the apex.
However, they face Gallants, who have been upsetting giants this season. Bahlabane ba Ntwa beat the Buccaneers 2-1 in a PSL match in August.
They have also posted 1-1 identical draws with Kaizer Chiefs and Sundowns in the league. On their way to the Carling Knockout, Gallants eliminated Masandawana at the quarter-final stage and are currently on a three-match unbeaten streak in all competitions.
The Carling Knockout comes at the perfect time for Gallants, Makudubela believes, as he weighs who could be the triumphant side on Saturday.
WHO CARRIES MORE WEIGHT BETWEEN PIRATES AND GALLANTS AHEAD OF THE CKO FINAL?
“I think Marumo have been on a good streak of form. This final comes at the right time when they are doing fairly well,” Makudubela told FARPost.
“I think they struck the right balance in terms of making sure they have a little bit of experience and some exciting youngsters in the team. Their game against Pirates is obviously not going to be a walk in the park.
“Pirates are a team that know how to win Cups. They are experienced, and a lot of players also represent the national team. So, it’s going to be an exciting game, an electrifying one.”
Gallants coach Alexandre Lafitte is also in his first season in charge of his team, and interestingly, he succeeded Ouaddou at Bahlabane ba Ntwa.
This is the first time the Bloemfontein-based side has reached the final of a major tournament. They lost the 2022 Nedbank Cup final to Sundowns.
“From the time I was at Marumo Gallants, I think they have shown that they can be a threatening team. They can be a team to contest for titles,” Makudubela continued.
“Going into the final, obviously, they are playing against Orlando Pirates, a team that knows how to win Cups. I think the Pirates coach has also done a very good job, a tremendous job with the boys so far.
“They have won the MTN8 back-to-back, and they want to clinch this one just for them to have some sort of chance to win a treble this season. I think it is going to be a really interesting game.
“Anyone can walk away with it. It will all depend on who wants it more on the day.”
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