Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi expressed cautious confidence ahead of a stern test in Saturday’s highly anticipated MTN8 final clash against Stellenbosch.

Pirates, the competition’s defending champions, are gunning for an unprecedented third consecutive title, but standing in their way is a fast and resilient Stellenbosch side eager to lift their second major trophy.

On the back of the Pirates coach Jose Riveiro dubbing this match as the hardest final they have ever had to play, Ncikazi echoed the coaches’ sentiments, admitting that Stellies is one of the most difficult opponents the Buccaneers have faced in recent times.

“The sentiments that are echoed by the coach, I think it’s shared by everybody in the club. This is one of the most difficult finals, the most difficult matches that we have ever played, based on how Stellenbosch plays and sets up,” Ncikazi said.

Despite the Pirates’ tactical prowess, which relies heavily on patient build-up play and possession-based football, Stellenbosch’s well-organized defensive structure and devastating speed in transition have been the hallmarks of their success this season. Pirates, however, know that even the best game plan might not be enough to completely neutralize their opponents.

“We can analyze to the best of our ability how they play but they will still play that way. Knowing it does not necessarily mean that we can stop it, because sometimes it’s not tactics, it’s just sheer physical qualities of how fast and quick they can run,” Ncikazi admitted.

The stats back up this assessment, with Stellenbosch proving to be one of the most dangerous sides in the country when it comes to pressing and transitions. According to Ncikazi, the focus for Pirates will be on how well they can execute their game plan while managing Stellies’ strengths.

“The stats support the game they are playing; the most counter-pressing team, the team that is very strong on transitions, is the Stellies. It’s up to us how we deal with that on the day. We have to deal with that to put our hands on the trophy,” he acknowledged.

The MTN8 final threatens to be a tactical chess match, with both teams looking to cancel each other out. It’s a balancing act that will require near-perfect execution, something Ncikazi is mindful of.

“We must remember that players are individuals, they are human beings. There will be errors here and there. We don’t want to commit many. But we are aware of their strengths while they are aware of ours. I just hope that we make fewer mistakes and play our game,” Ncikazi added.

With a sold-out Moses Mabhida Stadium set to host the showdown, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Pirates, an 87-year-old giant of South African football, will be looking to assert their dominance once again, while Stellenbosch, only eight years old, seeks to upset the established order and secure their place in history.

The battle for the MTN8 crown that comes with R10 million is set, and all eyes will be on Durban as two contrasting football philosophies collide in pursuit of glory. For Pirates, it’s about cementing their legacy. For Stellenbosch, it’s a chance to prove that their rise to prominence is no fluke.