‘We Want To Set The Tone’ — Makhaula
Orlando Pirates midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula has stressed the importance of winning the MTN8 title, particularly for the club’s new players, while also sending a message to their rivals that the defending champions are capable of retaining their crown.
The Soweto Giants will take on Mamelodi Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday as they look to defend their MTN8 title and secure their first piece of silverware of the 2026/27 season.
The highly anticipated clash is expected to be played in front of a sold-out crowd, with the two sides having met in the two-legged semi-finals of the previous edition. Pirates eventually prevailed on penalties after the tie ended in a draw.
Makhaula believes winning the title again would be particularly significant for the new players who have yet to experience MTN8 success.
He also feels another triumph would send a strong message to the rest of the teams that Pirates are determined and capable of defending their title.
“I think winning this trophy will be good for those players who haven’t won the MTN8,” said Makhaula.
“And also for us to set the tone for the other teams that we can defend our cups and our Betway. We just have to fight hard so that they can see that this team is not just a new team, but a team that is solid and willing to fight for everything.”
