Arthur Sales ready for first MTN8 final after injury layoff

Mamelodi Sundowns forward Arthur Sales says he is ready to make his first appearance in an MTN8 final after overcoming a lengthy injury absence that required two surgeries.

The Brazilians face Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, with the final scheduled to kick off at 18h00.

Pirates are aiming to make history by becoming the first team to win the MTN8 five years in a row, but Sales believes Sundowns have the quality and experience to compete at the highest level.

The 24-year-old has only recently returned to action after a difficult spell on the sidelines and is eager to play a part as Sundowns attempt to add another trophy.

“It was a very difficult time for me, because I did two surgeries. It’s very difficult for any player to come back from injury, so now I’m very happy to be on the pitch, to help my teammates,” Sales said.

“Now we come back in a very important game and I’m happy to be on the pitch now.”

Sales’ return gives manager Miguel Cardoso another attacking option for a final expected to be closely contested between two of South Africa’s leading clubs.

Both Sundowns and Pirates possess considerable attacking strength, and Sales says concentration could prove decisive if either side is to claim the trophy.

“I think this is about the big clubs. Any mistake, you can concede goals or score goals, so you need attention, concentration,” he said.

“Our attack is very different profiles. When Nuno doesn’t happen [score], Skwishi is performing. When Tassie is not performing, Antonio [van Wyk] is. So this is how I think.”

Sales embraces new challenge

Unlike Pirates, who arrive with substantial MTN8 pedigree and the chance to secure a fifth successive title, Sundowns will rely on their own belief when the teams meet in Durban.

Sales was not part of the Sundowns squad three years ago and will therefore be experiencing an MTN8 final for the first time.

“I was not here three years ago, this is my first MTN8 final, so it’s a new thing to me, a new challenge,” he said.

“But I think now we have proved ourselves in many big games, so we’re ready to play at the highest level possible.”

The forward expects the pressure of the occasion to make small errors particularly costly, with the outcome potentially decided by which team remains composed for longer.

“When you play on this high level, these little mistakes can be crucial,” he explained.

“When the level of the game goes up, you need concentration and take care of the details.”