“We Need To Win It” — Why Mkhulise Says Sundowns Must Break Pirates’ MTN8 Grip

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Sphelele Mkhulise has emphasised the importance of winning the MTN8, saying that starting the season with a trophy makes it crucial for the club to maintain that momentum.

Sundowns will face Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, with the Brazilians aiming to lift the trophy after winning the competition just once in the past eight years.

Pirates, meanwhile, have dominated the MTN8 in recent years and will be looking to defend their title.

Mkhulise believes winning the cup competition would be significant for Sundowns as they look to build on their strong start to the season.

“For us, this is an important cup to win because we have not won it before,” said Mkhulise.

“Pirates have been dominating this cup competition, so we need to win it. Now that we have started the season very well and have already won a trophy [FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup], we wish to continue like that.

“Each and every season at Sundowns, at the start of the season, we want to dominate all the cup competitions we are playing in.”

The 28-year-old, who will be hoping to feature in the highly anticipated sold-out clash, further explained what keeps him motivated despite not getting regular playing time.

“What I do is that I am always ready, and I work very hard in training every day, even when I am at home,” said Mkhulise.

“I do this so that when the coach needs me, I am ready to deliver and do everything to make sure that everyone at Sundowns is happy.”