With the highly anticipated MTN8 final on the horizon, Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro is already strategizing.
As his team gears up for the big match on Saturday, Riveiro has his eyes set on some key players from Stellenbosch FC, who he sees as potential threats.
The showdown is set to take place on October 5 at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, with kickoff scheduled for 6PM.
Pirates Aim for a Third Consecutive Title
Orlando Pirates are walking into the final with a lot at stake. After winning the MTN8 title for the past two years, they’ll be looking to make it three in a row.
Their previous victories include a narrow 1-0 win against AmaZulu FC and a dramatic penalty shootout triumph over Mamelodi Sundowns following a goalless draw.
Riveiro’s side is confident but knows they have a tough battle ahead against a formidable Stellenbosch FC.
Stellenbosch Eyeing Their Own Piece of History
While Pirates have their sights set on a historic third title, Stellenbosch FC is aiming for their second major win in the PSL.
Last season, they captured the Carling Knockout Cup, securing victory over TS Galaxy in a nail-biting 5-4 penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw.
This final presents Stellies with a chance to add another trophy to their growing cabinet, making them hungry for a win in Durban.
Key Stellies Players to Watch
According to coach Jose Riveiro, Stellenbosch boasts a group of dangerous players that could cause trouble for Pirates.
Lehlohonolo Mojela, Devin Titus, Sanele Barns, and Jayden Adams have all been flagged as players to keep an eye on during the match.
Riveiro expects Stellenbosch to take an aggressive, attacking approach, especially with players like Mojela, who has been on fire since joining from TS Galaxy, scoring five goals in eight matches.
Similarly, Barns, who recently arrived from Richards Bay FC, has made an immediate impact, with one goal in nine matches.
Riveiro also highlighted the contribution of academy products Adams and Titus, who have been performing well this season.
Titus has netted one goal in ten games, while Adams, a target for Mamelodi Sundowns during the transfer window, has scored one and assisted in nine matches.
Riveiro’s Game Plan Against Stellenbosch
Despite their recent success, Riveiro knows the challenge that Stellenbosch presents.
Reflecting on past encounters with the team, he acknowledged the difficulty of facing them, even recalling how it took Pirates 94 minutes to secure a win at Athlone Stadium last season.
Riveiro is well aware of Stellies’ attacking threats and anticipates a tough battle filled with counterattacks and transitions.
“We’re going to be permanently under threat,” Riveiro noted, emphasizing how quick and aggressive Stellenbosch is, especially in counter-press situations.
He stressed the importance of controlling key moments in the game, particularly when Stellenbosch loses possession.
In his words, “If we do it, we will be close to winning. If we don’t, we will be compromised.”
What’s Next for the Pirates?
As the MTN8 final draws near, all eyes are on how Pirates will handle Stellenbosch’s attacking power.
With their track record of success in the tournament, Pirates are poised to defend their title.
However, Stellenbosch is determined to spoil the party and make history of their own.
It promises to be a thrilling clash in Durban.