The first piece of silverware is up for grabs at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, with both sides desperate to stamp their authority early on in the season.
Last season, the Buccaneers ended Sundowns’ domestic dominance by lifting the league title, and while the Brazilians did lift the CAF Champions League, they drew a rare blank on the domestic circuit with Pirates going on to win the treble.
It’s two of not just South Africa, but Africa’s top sides going head-to-head, with a wide selection of top-quality players on show.
Today, we take a look at five players who could be the difference for their side.
Five players to watch out for in the MTN8 final
Sipho Chaine: The Orlando Pirates goalkeeper is in the form of his life. Not only does he know how to keep a clean sheet, but when it comes to saving penalties, he’s also proven he’s a class above the rest.
With the potential of the match being decided by the lottery of the penalty spot, Chaine could prove to be the difference for his side once again.
Nuno Santos: Mamelodi Sundowns have an array of players who can make a difference on the day, but none more so than the Portuguese midfielder.
His performance against Al Ahli in the Intercontinental Cup was simply sublime. While Miguel Cardoso will be hoping he continues on from there, his opponents will be hoping Santos has an off day at the office.
Oswin Appollis: Fresh off a solid international break with Bafana Bafana, Appollis is looking in form and dangerous. He’s already proven his class time and time again and will be someone Sundowns will be paying close attention to.
Brayan Leon: The Colombian striker knows how to find the back of the net. Since joining Mamelodi Sundowns last season, Leon already has 18 goals and three assists in just 35 matches for Masandawana.
If given any space or room to roam around, he will punish Orlando Pirates, and that’s something they’ll be well aware of.
Thapelo Mokobodi: The 23-year-old has been one of the surprise packages of the season so far. It’s going to be a level he’s not used to playing at, but from what we’ve seen of him so far, it won’t be a surprise if he bosses things in the middle of the park.
Photo: Daniel Hlongwane/Gallo Images
