“Two Champions, One Crown” – Ouaddou

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says the MTN8 final will feature a clash between two of the league’s top teams, both champions in their own right.

The Buccaneers nearly completed a sweep of domestic silverware last season, securing their third domestic treble in the PSL era by winning the MTN8, Carling Knockout, and Betway Premiership titles.

By lifting the league trophy, Pirates ended Mamelodi Sundowns’ eight-year dominance—marking the Soweto giants’ first Premiership title since the 2011/12 campaign, when they also claimed a treble.

However, Sundowns matched Pirates’ domestic success on the continental stage by conquering Africa to lift the CAF Champions League trophy.

The final, at a sold-out MTN8 final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday night, features the league’s top two teams in prime form.

Sundowns lead the Betway Premiership standings with 20 points from eight matches, while Pirates sit second, just one point behind with a game in hand.

“I think it is a good event,” said Ouaddou.

“We are really excited to play this kind of game again, defending this title.

“We had around two weeks to prepare for this game, of course. We missed some of the international players during training, like many teams. But at least, it was a rhythm, the focus on the game.

“But what a fantastic event we are having in Durban. We know that it is a city where we have a lot of support.

“We are playing between the two champions, a fantastic event for the country, for all lovers of football.

“Our aim is to go in that game with a big ambition, willing to do well to show the best face of Pirates and of course a good image of football in South Africa.

“I think what is important is that the MTN8 Cup is going to be watched all over the continent, let’s say, in the world. It is important for the two teams to give a good image of football.

“But every excitement is on my side. I feel very good energy from my players from technical staff.”

A victory for Pirates in the MTN8 final would see them equal Kaizer Chiefs’ record of 15 titles in the competition.

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