Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns name strongest line-ups for MTN8 final

Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns have selected experienced starting line-ups for the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with both coaches calling on key players who had recently been carrying injuries.

Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou brought defender Deon Hotto and midfielder Thalente Mbatha back into his XI. Both players missed Bafana Bafana’s recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifier victories against Guinea and Eritrea because of injury.

Sipho Chaine starts in goal, while Nkosinathi Sibisi and Lebone Seema form the central defensive pairing. Hotto and Kamogelo Sebelebele complete the back four.

Mbatha returns to the centre of midfield alongside Thapelo Mokobodi. Simphiwe Selepe, Gampani Lungu, Tshepang Moremi and Yanela Mbuthuma are also included in Pirates’ starting line-up.

Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has likewise turned to two experienced players who were doubts for the final after sustaining injuries while on international duty.

Defender Aubrey Modiba and midfielder Teboho Mokoena have both been named in the starting XI. Ronwen Williams continues as captain and takes his place in goal.

Williams is protected by Khulumane Ndamane, Malibongwe Khoza, Thapelo Morema and Thabang Matuludi in defence.

Mokoena retains his midfield partnership with Marcello Allende, while Nuno Santos and Tashreeq Matthews are also selected. Brayan Leon leads the line as the lone striker.