Mbatha Ready To Make Pirates Comeback In MTN8 Final
Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha is confident he can play a role in Saturday’s MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns after overcoming a lengthy injury layoff.
Mbatha has been sidelined since the opening stages of the season, with his absence particularly felt in the Pirates midfield over the past two months.
He has now returned to full training and has featured in preparation matches as he works towards regaining his match fitness.
The midfielder admits the road back has not been easy, but says the Pirates medical team has played an important role in his recovery.
“It’s been a difficult journey to get back, but the medical team helped me and continue to help me because I have to continue training to get stronger,” Mbatha said.
He believes the preparation matches have helped him regain both fitness and confidence.
Mbatha could potentially come up against his Bafana Bafana midfield partner Teboho Mokoena if he features against Sundowns, but he insists his attention is firmly on helping Pirates.
“I don’t focus on the rivals, I focus on my job and Orlando Pirates,” he added. “If I’m given the opportunity in the final I’ll do my best for the team to win another title.”
Pirates will face Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, with the Buccaneers chasing their fifth MTN8 trophy in a row.
Sundowns are chasing their first domestic cup under Miguel Cardoso, who has won the league and the CAF Champions League in two seasons.