‘Pirates will make history’ - Mhlongo backs fourth MTN8 title

Saturday marks a monumental day in South African football as the MTN8 final descends upon Mbombela Stadium, with Orlando Pirates poised to make history.

Standing in their way is a determined Stellenbosch FC, a team with a point to prove in this high-stakes rematch of last year's final.

This isn’t just another cup final; it’s a shot at unprecedented glory. Orlando Pirates are on the cusp of a truly remarkable achievement: winning the MTN8 for the fourth consecutive time.

This would solidify their status as a dynasty and etch their names into the annals of South African football history.

Ahead of the game, Showmax chatted to former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper and club legend, Brighton Mhlongo, who has predicted that Pirates will go on to win their historic fourth MTN8 title in a row.

"It’s very exciting because Orlando Pirates have become serial cup winners, true cup specialists," says Mhlongo.”

"When you look at what they’ve done over the past four seasons, it’s something no other team has managed: going for a fourth consecutive MTN8 title. That alone is history and a remarkable achievement for the players, the club, and everyone who supports Pirates."

Mhlongo believes this is a special group of players who are doing something incredible, especially with the added storyline of a rematch from last year’s final.

For Stellenbosch, Mhlongo sees a different kind of pressure.

"For Stellenbosch, this feels like redemption," he explains. "Remember, last year’s final was surrounded by controversy over that goal Pirates scored, which led to a lot of debate. Now, the pressure is even bigger on Stellenbosch because they haven’t had the strongest start to the league, they already lost to Pirates this season, and they’ll want to prove that last year wasn’t just about controversy."

The former shot-stopper knows all about the immense pressure that comes with playing in such a high-stakes match.

"The pressure is massive. First of all, wearing the Pirates badge alone carries weight. You’re not just representing yourself or your family - you’re carrying the hopes of millions of supporters across the country," he says.

Mhlongo also pointed to the psychological edge Pirates have gained through their recent dominance.

"Over the past five seasons, Pirates have done so well in the MTN8, which has eased some of the pressure and given them bragging rights. Winning early also gives the supporters belief."

He adds that the pressure is now on the current squad not to give away a trophy the club has become so dominant in.

When asked about the possibility of the game going to penalties, Mhlongo has full confidence in the current Pirates goalkeeper.

"One hundred percent. And I’m not just saying that - history backs it up. Remember the MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns, when Sipho Chaine saved three of four penalties to win the title? Then again, in this season’s semi-final against Sundowns, he stepped up once more."

He believes this puts fear and pressure on the opposition, as history has shown that if the game goes to penalties, Pirates have the upper hand.

Mhlongo also weighed in on Pirates' overall performance this season under new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

"It’s been exciting to see how the coach has managed to integrate new players so quickly," he notes. "Players like Mike Sebelebele have come in and delivered impressive performances. It’s still a long league campaign ahead, but I believe Pirates are doing well and will challenge strongly for the title. I see them going far this season."