Why Stellenbosch can cause upset for Pirates 

Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Tefu Mashamaite and Mamelodi Sundowns legend Hlompho Kekana have explained why they believe Stellenbosch FC can cause an upset against Orlando Pirates in the MTN8.

Pirates once again make a trip to Cape Town to take on Stellies in the first leg of the MTN8 semi-final on Sunday, 3 September 2023. 

The showdown will take place at Athlone Stadium, with the kick-off scheduled for 15:00.

The Buccaneers are gunning for revenge, having lost to Stellies with a 1-0 scoreline earlier this season in a DStv Premiership clash. 

Pirates booked the semi-final spot after thrashing Sekhukhune United 5-0 in the quarter-finals of the competition last month.

Meanwhile, Stellies progressed to the semis after defeating SuperSport United 1-0 in the quarter-final away from home. 

TEFU MASHAMAITE: ‘THEY ARE EAGER TO MAKE HISTORY’ 

The ex-Bidvest Wits defender Mashamaite reckons that Stellenbosch are not in the MTN8 just to make up numbers, but they are in it to win it and make history. 

“I think one of the things that Stellenbosch has done is to raise their hand and say that we are not here just to make up numbers, but we are here to challenge,” Mashamaite told FARPost. 

“They have put their money where their mouth are. You know, they are eager to make history and to be one of the best teams in the country. 

“I feel like at the end of the day, they will be hungry enough and want to make history in terms of winning their first trophy.”

Mashamaite continued: “And this is a great opportunity for them to achieve that, as they are in the semi-finals and anything can happen.”

HLOMPHO KEKANA: ‘THEY’RE CAPABLE TO CAUSE UPSET FOR BIG TEAMS’

On the other hand, former Sundowns skipper Kekana, added that Stellenbosch are very much capable of causing an upset for big teams in cup competitions. 

Kekana went on to mention how the Cape Winelands side beat Masandawana in the Nedbank Cup tournament. 

“I did mention that the significance of the tournament, you don’t have to win it by having a good form. On the day, if you are willing to risk it more, you stand a chance of winning,” he added. 

“Stellenbosch hammered Mamelodi Sundowns in a cup competition last time. So, you can see how capable they are to cause an upset for big teams.

“I do believe that this tournament when it reaches the semi-finals, the results can be very interesting for people who will be watching.

“But whoever takes their chances stands a chance of doing well because it’s a two-legged fixture.”

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