Orlando Pirates legend Benedict ‘Tso’ Vilakazi has cast doubt on his former club’s chances of winning silverware this season following their MTN8 final defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns.
The Buccaneers suffered a 2-0 loss to the Brazilians, who claimed their first MTN8 title in five years.
Pirates enjoyed a successful campaign last season, winning a treble, but their hopes of defending their trophies have already suffered a setback.
With Sundowns showing impressive form, the Soweto giants face a tough challenge in their pursuit of more silverware.
Vilakazi, who has previously praised Abdeslam Ouaddou’s team, believes Pirates will struggle to win trophies this season, particularly if they come up against Sundowns in cup competitions.
“Orlando Pirates won’t win a trophy this season. My reason is I’ve watched Sundowns this season, especially their past two games against the champions of Saudi Arabia (Asia) and against Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 final. I don’t see any team stopping Pirates except for Sundowns,” he said on the Omniaudio Africa podcast.
Tso Vilakazi backs Sundowns to dominate over Orlando Pirates
Vilakazi went further, predicting that Sundowns would have the upper hand if the two teams meet again in a cup final.
“If Pirates play Sundowns, they will lose. I see Sundowns taking everything this season. If they play the way they are playing now, I don’t see anyone stopping them, including Pirates.
“I love Pirates with all of my heart and it is my home, but looking at Sundowns’ performance, they look unstoppable,” he added.
Orlando Pirates will now have to regroup after their MTN8 disappointment as they turn their attention to the remaining competitions.
Meanwhile, Sundowns will look to build on their cup success as they pursue further honours this season.