As Orlando Pirates prepare to defend their MTN8 title, starting against SuperSport United at Orlando Stadium tonight (18:00), captain Innocent Maela has dismissed any notion that luck played a role in their recent successes in the competition. 

Instead, he attributes their consecutive MTN8 victories to the team’s unwavering work ethic.

Pirates have an impressive track record in the MTN8 tournament, having won the competition more than anyone (five) since the telecommunication took over as the sponsor 15 years ago. 

Their recent triumphs include back-to-back titles in the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons.

When asked about their supposed lucky charm in the competition, Maela was quick to set the record straight. “I don’t think it’s a lucky charm,” asserted Maela, who missed the 2022/23 triumph due to an injury. 

“I think the past two seasons we worked hard for us to be in the final, to have the opportunity to win it and lift the trophy. And last season to be able to defend it was awesome, but coming to this season, we have agreed as a team, the technical team, that we have to start from the bottom again and earn it every day.”

Despite being favorites to clinch the cup again, Maela is well aware of the challenges that lie ahead. He emphasized the necessity of maintaining their high standards and outworking their opponents.

“We know that we have to work hard, more than our opponents, so that we allow ourselves to go through,” he stated.

The Pirates’ recent history in the MTN8 is nothing short of remarkable, with three wins in the last four finals and a successful defense of their title last season. 

Naturally, there is an expectation for them to achieve a third consecutive victory. However, Maela insists that the team is not feeling any additional pressure to secure a three-peat. Instead, they remain focused on their season objectives, which include winning every possible trophy.

“No, not at all,” Maela responded when asked about the pressure to win the MTN8 for a third consecutive time. “When you are playing for a team like Orlando Pirates, the pressure will always be there. Like I’ve said, going into the new season, we sit down and draw our expectations, we set our goals, and every trophy we can win, we go out there and try our level best.”

As the Buccaneers gear up for their next MTN8 challenge, Maela’s leadership and the team’s collective determination will be crucial in their pursuit of yet another cup triumph.