Mamelodi Sundowns face MTN8 final pressure as Dan Malesela backs Orlando Pirates to exploit desperation

Mamelodi Sundowns could be more vulnerable than Orlando Pirates in Saturday’s MTN8 final because of their desperation to end a frustrating wait for the trophy, former defender Dan Malesela has warned.

Pirates will chase a fifth consecutive MTN8 crown when the sides meet, while Sundowns will be determined to overcome a competition that has repeatedly eluded them, including their defeat to the Buccaneers in the 2023 final.

Malesela believes that hunger could work in Sundowns’ favour, but the psychological burden of needing to win may also become a disadvantage against a Pirates side that appears comfortable on the big occasion.

The former defender, who represented both clubs, shared his assessment with Flashscore ahead of the highly anticipated showdown.

Sundowns’ trophy drought brings added pressure

Sundowns have struggled to turn their domestic dominance into MTN8 success in recent years, leaving them with an additional incentive to win Saturday’s final.

Malesela, who famously guided then second-tier TS Galaxy to the 2019 Nedbank Cup title with victory over Kaizer Chiefs, believes Pirates hold the historical advantage but expects Sundowns to approach the contest with greater urgency.

“Looking at the history, it’s one trophy that has been eluding Sundowns for some time. I don’t know whether it’s got something to do with the yellow of MTN and the yellow of Sundowns!” Malesela joked.

“It’s a very difficult one to judge. But obviously, if it’s based on history, which sometimes doesn’t count for too much, then Pirates have the edge.

“But we know Sundowns will be very, very desperate to win this trophy.”

That desperation, he believes, could shape the contest as much as the teams’ tactical approaches.

Mental battle could decide the final

Malesela expects the pressure of ending their wait for the trophy to weigh more heavily on Sundowns than on the defending champions.

He believes Pirates could benefit from a more relaxed mindset, while Sundowns must find a way to channel their determination without allowing the occasion to overwhelm them.

“There is a big mental aspect to it. I think Pirates will probably be a bit more relaxed, while Sundowns will probably be a bit tense,” he said.

“That can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on how you approach the occasion.

“I think the mental approach is the biggest thing here. But it obviously comes with the pressure on Sundowns of saying, ‘We want to win this. We really must win this.’

“That can be an advantage, but it can also be a disadvantage.”

For Sundowns, managing those expectations will be crucial if they are to prevent Pirates from extending their remarkable run in the competition.

Malesela questions Sundowns’ attacking efficiency

Beyond the psychological battle, Malesela has raised concerns about Sundowns’ ability to create chances quickly enough in the final third.

The former coach of TS Galaxy, Chippa United and Marumo Gallants believes the Brazilians have sometimes taken too long to move into dangerous attacking positions, potentially allowing opponents to organise their defences.

“I’m a bit sceptical about Sundowns’ creation of chances lately. I think they take too long to get into the opposition’s final third,” he said.

“If they can try to save time and create more opportunities when they have the chance to go forward, while still being cautious, they can get into the opposition’s half much quicker.”

Against a Pirates side seeking another title, Sundowns may need greater speed and precision in their attacking transitions to turn possession into meaningful opportunities.

Pirates impress despite key departures

While Sundowns face questions about their attacking efficiency, Malesela has praised Pirates for maintaining their level despite losing creative players Relebohile Mofokeng and Patrick Maswanganyi.

He credited the technical team for ensuring the departures have not significantly disrupted the Buccaneers’ performances, with other players stepping forward to fill the gaps.

“I think credit must go to the technical staff because they have managed to deal with those departures so well that you can hardly notice the difference. In fact, based on their current form, you don’t notice it at all,” he said.

“If they continue performing the way they are performing now, it could be something special. You wouldn’t think they had lost players who had such a big influence on the team.

“Sometimes in football, it becomes a blessing when players leave because it gives others the opportunity to come through and shine.”

With Pirates chasing another MTN8 triumph and Sundowns desperate to end their wait, Saturday’s final could hinge on which side handles the pressure and executes its game plan more effectively.