By Michael Madyira
Orlando Pirates’ bid for a third consecutive MTN8 title will be challenged by SuperSport United in a quarter-final match at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
The Buccaneers, winners of the last two MTN8 titles under coach Jose Riveiro, are known for their strong cup performances.
However, Riveiro recognises the difficulty of facing SuperSport United.
“We take one competition at a time,” Riveiro said.
“We have the MTN8 where we have the opportunity to defend our title, but we have to respect our next opponents because SuperSport is not a joke.”
He said they played them twice last season and couldn’t beat them.
“We lost in Polokwane and managed to get only one point at Orlando Stadium on the last day of the season,” he said.
Gavin Hunt’s SuperSport United wants to upset Pirates and win the MTN8 for the first time since 2019.
SuperSport has won the competition three times, compared to Pirates’ 12 wins.
Former Buccaneers defender Thulani Hlatshwayo, now SuperSport’s captain, sees the MTN8 as a crucial start to the season.
“The MTN8 is a good cup to start strong,” said Hlatshwayo.
“As soon as you win the MTN8, it sets the tone for the rest of the season. We know what Pirates are capable of. I’ve won this cup with them before, but we also know where we can hurt them.”
Both teams are expected to feature their new signings in Saturday’s match.
Pictured above: Orlando Pirates starlet Relebohile Mofokeng tracks SuperSport United’s Siphesihle Ndlovu while Grant Margeman supports.
Source: Orlando Pirates
