iDiski Times previews MTN8 final with former winners and exclusive interviews

The 276th edition of iDiski Times is now available, with the MTN8 final between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns taking centre stage.

With the showpiece match taking place this weekend, Matshelane Mamabolo has spoken to three former winners of the competition – Thulani Hlatshwayo, Benson Mhlongo and Lefa Tsutsulupa – to hear their views on which side will lift the trophy.

Their perspectives form part of the publication’s coverage of a final that brings together Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, two of South Africa’s leading clubs.

The edition also looks beyond the MTN8, with attention turning to Tanzanian giants Simba SC. The club held a training camp in Polokwane during the international break before preparing for a major derby against Young Africans.

Lethabo Kganyago conducted interviews with Simba SC’s South African players Keletso Makgalwa and Rushine De Reuck, who discuss the preparations for that fixture.

The MTN8 final is further examined through the experiences of this year’s ambassadors. Rob Delport spoke to Rodney Ramagalela and Vuyo Mere, as well as the MTN8 trophy, about the contest between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.

The issue’s regular iDiski’s Top 10 feature focuses on the tournament’s history, presenting 10 facts about the MTN8 and recalling the background of the prestigious domestic cup competition.

Readers can also find the latest developments in the Rumour Mill, which brings together the newest transfer whispers from the football world.

The World & South Africa section includes a feature on Pierre Issa. It seeks to remind South African football supporters that Issa’s career amounted to far more than the own goal he scored at the World Cup.

The edition brings together tournament analysis, interviews with former winners and current players, historical features and wider football coverage from South Africa and abroad.