Manyisa says MTN8 final showed the best of South African football

Former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Oupa Manyisa says the MTN8 final between his former clubs was a strong advertisement for South African football, even though he believes the 2-0 result did not accurately reflect the contest.

Mamelodi Sundowns reclaimed the trophy from Orlando Pirates on October 10 at Moses Mabhida Stadium, taking advantage of their opportunities to defeat the defending champions and prevent them from retaining the title.

Manyisa, who played for both clubs, said the final offered an entertaining display of the quality in the domestic game. He felt both teams remained committed to their established identities and gave supporters a contest that could have produced a different result.

“It was a very good, action-packed game. I think it was balanced, with both teams playing according to their qualities and their usual style, without holding back. They gave everyone who watched the game an opportunity to enjoy the brand of football they displayed on the evening,” Manyisa told the Siya crew.

The former Bafana Bafana international argued that the scoreline understated the number of opportunities created during the match.

Chances missed by both sides

“For me, the 2-0 scoreline was not a true reflection of the game. I believe there could have been more goals. Sundowns created more chances but missed some of them, while Pirates also had opportunities and deserved to get on the scoresheet,” he said.

Manyisa also highlighted the contrasting fortunes of the two clubs from the penalty spot.

“Pirates also missed a penalty, while Sundowns converted theirs. At the end of the day, football is about creating and converting chances. Sundowns took their chances, and that is why they are now the MTN8 champions.”

The former midfielder has insight into the rivalry from both sides, having helped Orlando Pirates achieve success before making a surprise move to Mamelodi Sundowns in 2017.

His time with the two leading clubs from Soweto and Tshwane gives added weight to his assessment of a final in which the margins proved decisive.

Orlando Pirates will be left to consider the chances they failed to take as they attempted to defend their MTN8 crown. Mamelodi Sundowns, meanwhile, can draw encouragement from their ability to make the most of the opportunities that came their way at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

For Manyisa, the match demonstrated the competitiveness of the country’s leading teams, while also showing how finishing can determine the outcome of a closely contested final.