Choeu backs Sundowns to beat in-form Pirates in MTN8 final

Mamelodi Sundowns legend Harris “TV-4” Choeu has predicted that the Brazilians will defeat Orlando Pirates in the 2026 MTN8 final, although he believes the match could be decided by Sundowns’ defensive weaknesses and will not be an easy contest.

Both clubs, who are representing South Africa in this season’s CAF Champions League, secured their places in the final with impressive semi-final victories. Their progress has set up a meeting between two of the biggest sides in the PSL.

Orlando Pirates have reached the MTN8 final for a fifth successive time, with the Buccaneers’ latest run coming during an impressive spell of form under Abdeslam Ouaddou. Choeu, who previously worked as an assistant coach at Pirates, said their recent performances meant Sundowns would face a serious challenge.

“The results support the way Pirates are playing now. They are playing well, they are scoring goals, and they are winning games,” Choeu told KickOff.

The former Sundowns figure nevertheless believes his old club retain enough quality to win the trophy, particularly if coach Cardoso selects the players he regards as his most reliable options.

Choeu’s main concern is the uncertainty created by rotation and experimentation in the Sundowns defence. He suggested that the club’s focus on managing its squad for CAF competitions could leave them vulnerable against a Pirates side whose younger attackers possess considerable pace.

“On the other hand, as Sundowns, it’s not a sure case for us. Unlike before. From my observation, the coach is saving some players for games like CAF competitions. He is trying to get the others on board. He is experimenting,” Choeu said.

Sundowns’ ability to field their “tried and tested” players could therefore be decisive, according to Choeu. He warned that the team’s centre-backs must provide greater stability if they are to prevent Pirates from exploiting space at the back.

“It will depend on who is going to be on the pitch on the day. If we can start with our tried and tested players, we will go all the way. The thing is at the back we are now wide open. Anything can happen to us anytime. We are not solid at the back. We need stability, especially from our two centre-backs. Pirates, they’ve got quicker, younger boys, Downs defence might be too open on the day. They might mesmerize us.”

The final will bring together two teams who have already demonstrated their strength in cup competition this season. Pirates’ sustained run to the showpiece has underlined their consistency, while Sundowns will be seeking to use their experience and established players to overcome a dangerous opponent.

Despite the warning over their defensive form, Choeu ultimately expects Sundowns to finish the final as champions. He stressed, however, that the outcome should not be considered certain before the match is played.

“But Sundowns, I believe we gonna be on the winning side, Sundowns is gonna win this final, but it’s not gonna be easy,” he concluded.