Sundowns and Pirates set for decisive MTN8 showdown in Durban

Mamelodi Sundowns striker Arthur Sales expects Orlando Pirates to provide the club’s toughest challenge in South Africa when the two sides meet in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday at 18:00.

Although Masandawana have dominated their league meetings with the Buccaneers, Pirates have proved difficult to overcome in knockout competitions. They have won the past two cup finals between the clubs, claiming the MTN8 in 2023 before lifting the Nedbank Cup in 2024.

“The tough games for Sundowns in South Africa are against Pirates because for many years, they have been close to Sundowns, competing for cups and the league,” Sales told the media.

“It is the biggest and toughest game for us in South Africa.”

The 24-year-old forward said winning the MTN8 was identified as a target at the start of the season, with head coach Miguel Cardoso urging the squad to end Sundowns’ long wait for the trophy.

“When the year started, the coach, Miguel Cardoso, said we must fight for this cup because the club has not won it for a while,” Sales said.

“We want this cup and will go all out.”

Sundowns’ last domestic knockout cup success came in 2022, when they beat Marumo Gallants 2-1 to lift the league trophy in Rustenburg.

Sales welcomed the opportunity to play in a final involving two of the country’s biggest clubs, stressing that the occasion would have a different character from a league fixture.

“Of course, it is a big game; two big clubs fighting to win the final,” he said. “It’s different when the two teams are playing in a league game … I’m happy to play this kind of match.”

Sundowns midfielder Sphelele Mkhulise acknowledged Pirates’ recent record in the MTN8 but believes his side will go into the final with an advantage.

“For us, this is an important cup that we need to win. It has been a while since we have won it,” Mkhulise said.

“Pirates have been dominating and winning this cup, so it’s important for us to win it.”

Mkhulise also rejected the suggestion that Sundowns could be considered underdogs, pointing to the club’s resources and experience.

“Yes, I think we have the advantage because at Sundowns, we can never be underdogs,” he said. “We always have the advantage because we have the best leadership, coaches and the best players.”