PRO PHILANI’S MZANSI WRAP: Pirates sink AmaZulu in eThekwini and Sundowns Ladies unbeaten in CAFWCL

Pirates Sink AmaZulu To Lift MTN8 Trophy

After a remarkable campaign, Orlando Pirates were crowned MTN8 champions for the 11th time in their history at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. The Sea Robbers beat AmaZulu 1-0 in front of a sold-out arena in the Coastal City, under the breeze of the warm Indian Ocean.

Only four months into the job, Pirates’ new man in charge, Jose Riveiro will be the prouder of the two coaches – having swiftly been able to impose his Spanish-inspired brand of football on the Soweto giants.

His opposite number, Romain Folz, came into this clash less than ideal ideal results under his name so far, but has admittedly enforced a mentality to adapt and win at Usuthu since taking over the reigns from Brandon Truter in October.

And while South African football took centre stage on the day and left so much to be desired, the brilliance of Monnapule Saleng on display saw the Buccaneers emerge victorious.

They were unfortunately dealt a huge bow in the early stages when centre-back Nkosinathi Sibisi was stretchered off the pitch after clashing with Gabadinho Mhango and injuring his calf inside the opening 30 seconds. Riveiro threw in Paseko Mako as his replacement, while Thapelo Xoki started the match in place of captain Innocent Maela, who injured his hamstring minutes before kickoff.

Usuthu also had their own injury crisis as veteran defender, Ramahlwe Mpahlele had to be replaced by Mbongeni Gumede after a nerve-wracking collision with Ofori in the Pirates box.

In his post-match interview, Folz admitted that his men were poor in the opening half, as they hardly threatened Pirates’ solid defence.

Two quick yellow cards for defender Thembela Sikhakhane and Gabadinho Mhango took away the aggressive nature of both players, which directly affected the offensive play of Usuthu throughout the game

It was indeed a tournament to remember for the high-flying Mo Saleng, who finished the tournament as top scorer with three goals to his name. When AmaZulu carelessly gave away a free kick in their own half, the winger didn’t need a second invitation as he surprised an out-of-position Veli Mothwa with a superb shot which curled into the top corner, handing the Bucs a deserved lead.

The goal conceded may have stirred up AmaZulu, who immediately looked to work their way back into the game against a solid Pirates’ back line.
Referee Luxolo Badi blew the whistle at the end of the 90 to give the Sea Robbers a well-deserved 11th MTN8 title.