Mamelodi Sundowns will never be underdogs to Orlando Pirates – Sphelele Mkhulise

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Sphelele Mkhulise has dismissed suggestions that his side will enter Saturday’s MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates as underdogs, despite the Brazilians’ recent struggles in the competition.

Sundowns have not lifted the MTN8 trophy in the past five years, while their opponents, Orlando Pirates, are chasing a record fifth consecutive title in the competition.

The two South African giants will meet at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in what promises to be another highly anticipated encounter between the country’s leading clubs.

However, Mkhulise believes Sundowns’ recent success gives them enough confidence heading into the final and insists the club’s status means they should never be regarded as underdogs.

“Heading into this game, I think we do have some sort of advantage and upper hand because we recently won a trophy,” Mkhulise said.

The midfielder was referring to Sundowns’ recent success, which he believes has given the squad additional belief ahead of another opportunity to add silverware to their collection.

While Pirates have enjoyed considerable success in the MTN8 in recent years, Mkhulise insists that history will not change the mentality within the Sundowns camp.

“Mamelodi Sundowns will never be underdogs, so that alone will always give us an edge against our opponents,” he added.

Mkhulise also placed his confidence in the club’s overall structure, highlighting the quality of the coaching staff, players and leadership as reasons why Sundowns will approach the final believing they can defeat the reigning champions.

“We have the best leadership, coaches and players in the club, so we will always have an advantage.”

Sundowns will therefore head into the final determined to end their five-year wait for the MTN8 trophy, while Pirates will be looking to extend their dominance in the competition by securing an unprecedented fifth successive title.

With both sides possessing strong ambitions and a history of success, Saturday’s final at Moses Mabhida Stadium is set to provide another major test of Sundowns’ credentials and Pirates’ grip on the MTN8.