Thabo Nthethe backs Mamelodi Sundowns to end Orlando Pirates’ MTN8 reign

Former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Thabo Nthethe believes his old club will beat Orlando Pirates in Saturday’s MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium, although he expects the holders to provide a major test.

Sundowns have suffered final defeats by Pirates in both the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup in their previous meetings. Nthethe says that history should give Masandawana extra motivation as they attempt to avoid another loss in the Wafa-Wafa decider.

Pirates are seeking a fifth successive MTN8 title and will be regarded by many as the favourites. However, Nthethe believes Sundowns will approach this final differently and ultimately lift the trophy.

“Sundowns are playing good football … [and] I see [them] winning this one, but it won’t be easy for them. Pirates are favourites, but I think Sundowns are going to take the trophy on Saturday,” Nthethe told Sowetan.

He said Sundowns were conscious of their recent difficulties against Pirates, who have dominated the competition in recent seasons.

“[Sundowns] are aware that they have been struggling, and Pirates have been winning this cup. Now their approach might be a little different in this match,” he said.

Nthethe also credited Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso with preparing the team for the challenge, while stressing that Pirates’ form and status as defending champions would make the contest difficult.

“Also, I think coach [Miguel] Cardoso worked with the boys and knows how to win this game. But it won’t be easy, like I said, for them to win it because Pirates have been doing well, and they are the defending champions of this trophy,” he said.

“Definitely, I’m sure they still want to defend that, and Sundowns will have to fight for everything. The favourite, I think most will say Pirates, but I foresee Sundowns playing much better.”

Nthethe believes Sundowns’ momentum has also been strengthened by their victory in the Fifa African Asian Pacific Cup before the Fifa international break.

He said that success, combined with their performances in the league, should encourage the team to pursue another trophy.

“I think it’s a good motivation for them and with how they have been playing in the league as well. I think that cup was a motivation for them to say we can also go all the way,” Nthethe said.

The former defender added that Sundowns could have an advantage in midfield through the experience of Nuno Santos, Teboho Mokoena and Marcelo Allende.

That experience contrasts with the younger midfield group at Pirates, according to Nthethe, who expects Sundowns’ seasoned players to play an important role in the final.