Mosimane explains Bafana Bafana’s careful handling of Pirates and Sundowns players before MTN8 final

Pitso Mosimane says Bafana Bafana deliberately managed players from Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns during the international break to protect both clubs before Saturday’s MTN8 final.

Khulumani Ndamane and Thapelo Morena of Mamelodi Sundowns, along with Tshepang Moremi of Orlando Pirates, were among those used sparingly as the national team prepared to return to domestic competition.

Bafana Bafana beat Egypt 1-0 in an international friendly in Cairo on Sunday night, with Mosimane pleased by both the result and the performance. The coach had selected a largely makeshift side compared with the team that defeated Guinea and Eritrea in the 2027 Afcon qualifiers.

Shandre Campbell and Puso Dithejane, who had not started either of those previous two matches, made their Bafana Bafana debuts against Egypt. Both made a strong impression and earned the respect and confidence of their team-mates, the coaching staff and supporters.

The national squad included a significant number of players from the two clubs contesting the MTN8 final. Pirates were represented by Nkosinathi Sibisi, Lebone Seema, Tshepang Moremi and Sipho Chaine, while Sundowns players included Ronwen Williams, Themba Zwane, Iqraam Rayners and Cassius Mailula.

That required Mosimane to monitor the workload of players from both teams. Sibisi, who was returning from injury, was introduced late in the match. Mosimane was also asked whether Aubrey Modiba could be available for the final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday at 18:00.

Several Sundowns players, including Teboho Mokoena and Bathusi Aubaas, suffered injuries during the training camp. Their absences led to an unfounded claim on social media that Mosimane had rested them specifically to benefit his former club in the final.

Mosimane said the decision was instead intended to ensure both finalists had their key players available and to preserve a positive relationship with the clubs ahead of November.

“We played Sibisi in the last few minutes because he came from an injury, and has a cup final,” Mosimane said. “We need to protect players that are going to play in the final so that no one is going to say we have favourites. I was afraid that Sibisi might have a problem. I know that Pirates are going to need him.

“Aubrey played in the last training session. We have to support the players so that the teams are good. I am happy that all the goalkeepers played. Lebone played well as well.”

Sundowns and Pirates’ meeting is the latest event in a strong opening to the season for both sides. Sundowns lead the league with 20 points, while Pirates are one point behind and have a game in hand.