“There’s No Luck In Finals” – Mbatha Sends Clear Warning To Sundowns
Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha believes hard work, rather than luck, will be key as the Buccaneers chase another MTN8 triumph against Mamelodi Sundowns in Durban.
Pirates will face Sundowns in the highly anticipated MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, with the Buccaneers aiming to win the competition for a historic fifth consecutive time.
The Soweto giants have dominated the MTN8 in recent years, winning the title in each of the previous four seasons. Pirates also defeated Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium in the 2023 final and remain the only team to have won the competition four times in a row.
With another opportunity to make history approaching, Mbatha insists that Pirates’ success in the competition has been built on the hard work they put in at training rather than luck.
“I believe that we work hard for everything that we get, and there’s no luck in winning finals,” he said.
“I believe it’s the hard work that we put in here at training, and we continue putting in the hard work, just like today. We’re going to continue working hard and winning.
“I believe it’s something that will play a big part for us if we win the final. We’re going to play the final to win it, and I believe that’s the right attitude we should have and also give to the youngsters.”
For Pirates, Saturday’s final is not only about maintaining their dominance in the competition but also another opportunity to make history by becoming the first team to win the MTN8 five times consecutively.
The occasion will carry additional significance for Mbatha, with the 26-year-old midfielder set to play an MTN8 final in his hometown of Durban.
The Pirates midfielder admitted that playing such an important match in his hometown will make the occasion even more special, although his focus will remain firmly on representing the Buccaneers.
“I think it’s really great, and it’s going to be a great feeling,” he added.
“It’s something special because I play for Orlando Pirates. When I go onto the field, I’m representing Orlando Pirates.
“The badge is on the front because when you walk out of the tunnel, people see what’s on the front. For me, it’s about focusing on Orlando Pirates.”
With history within reach and Sundowns standing between them and another MTN8 trophy, Pirates will be determined to maintain their remarkable record in the competition.
However, Mbatha’s involvement in the final remains uncertain, as he only returned to training last week after suffering an injury at the beginning of August. His fitness will ultimately determine whether he is available for selection on Saturday.
