Mahlangu warns Sundowns face a dangerous Pirates attack in MTN8 final

Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Albert ‘Bashin’ Mahlangu says Saturday’s MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns is so evenly matched that even he cannot predict the outcome.

The two sides meet at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with Mahlangu expecting a demanding contest between the clubs he represented during his playing career.

“Though I played for both teams, but Once a Pirate, Always a Pirate,” said the former Pirates star.

Mahlangu recalled the success Pirates enjoyed against Sundowns during his time at the club, but believes their midfield selection could be crucial if they are to compete with the Tshwane side’s quality.

“I still remember how we used to beat Sundowns during my time.

“If the coach can start with [Thalente] Mbatha or with [Makhehlene] Makhaula in the middle, we are going to talk a different story. The likes of [Marcelo] Allende and Teboho Mokoena will do as they please if we field only youngsters in our midfield.”

The former player said the occasion itself should provide sufficient motivation for the players, regardless of their level of match fitness.

“Some games don’t need match fitness, they automatically motivate a player. This is one game even I am struggling to predict. I don’t think there is anyone who knows how is this game going to turn out.

“I am nervous, but just a little bit,” added Mahlangu.

Pirates urged to target Sundowns’ defence

Mahlangu believes Pirates can exploit weaknesses in the Sundowns defence, particularly with Khuliso Mudau unavailable.

He argued that Sundowns’ backline lacks pace and pointed to the problems they experienced when facing Golden Arrows striker Junior Dion.

“Sundowns’ backline is very slow. With Khuliso Mudau not present, it will be even slower. Did you see how they struggled to contain the Golden Arrows striker, Junior Dion?

“And us Pirates, we have more than five Junior Dions in our attacking players.”

The comment reflects Mahlangu’s belief that Pirates possess several attacking players capable of causing the same problems as Dion, rather than relying on one individual threat.

Pirates will also be seeking to build on their previous victory over Sundowns in Mbombela, a result Mahlangu says will add further importance to the final.

“This is going to be one difficult final since Sundowns are still feeling the pain of losing to us in Mbombela. This is one game where chancers are not needed. This one’s not for beginners. It’s difficult to predict this game.”