Mamelodi Sundowns name starting XI for MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates

Mamelodi Sundowns have announced their starting XI for the MTN8 final against defending champions Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

The Durban venue will host its 11th MTN8 final this evening, with two of South Africa’s leading teams meeting for the trophy. Sundowns arrive after winning the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup, having beaten Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli 2-1.

Sundowns reached the final following two closely contested knockout ties. They defeated Polokwane City 3-2 after 120 minutes in the quarter-finals, with Cassius Mailula scoring the winning goal as he marked his return to the Brazilians.

The semi-final was decided by the away-goal rule. Sundowns lost the first leg 1-0 at home but recovered to win the return match 3-2 away from home and secure their place in the final.

The club’s most recent MTN8 triumph came in 2021, when they defeated Cape Town City 3-1 on penalties after the match finished 1-1 following 120 minutes.

Since that success, Sundowns have been eliminated in the semi-finals three times and have also suffered one final defeat against Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Sundowns will start with:

Mamelodi Sundowns XI: Williams, Ndamane, Matuludi, Khoza, Morena, Modiba, Mokoena, Allende, Santos, Matthews, Leon

Substitutes: Goss, Mvala, Zwane, Lunga, Ndlovu, Mailula, Cele, Van Wyk, Rayners