As the clock ticks down to the MTN8 final, a sense of defiance is building within the Stellenbosch camp.
While many are focused on the formidable challenge of facing a dominant Orlando Pirates side aiming for a historic fourth consecutive title, Stellies captain Sage Stephens insists his team is ready to make history of its own.
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No Revenge, Just History
Last year’s 3-1 defeat to the Buccaneers in the same final is far from the minds of the Stellenbosch players, according to their skipper. For them, this match is a fresh start and a chance to write a new chapter.
“We don’t look at this game as a chance for revenge. What is done is done, it’s all in the past,” Stephens said, emphasizing his team’s focus on the here and now. “We are viewing this final as one single game. This game has nothing to do with the final we played last season.”
The goalkeeper says the squad has been energized and focused all week, eager to deliver on the biggest stage. “This week has been bubbly, full of energy and we’re looking forward to putting on a good show this weekend,” he added.
Confidence Against the Champions
Stephens was quick to acknowledge the pedigree of their opponents. “On any given day, Pirates are a difficult opponent to come up against, hence they’ve won this tournament three times in a row, so we give them that respect,” he admitted.
That being said, that respect doesn’t come with a hint of fear. Stephens believes his team is the perfect one to end the Buccaneers’ reign. “But in the same sense, Stellenbosch has its own qualities. There’s no team better than us to stop their brilliant MTN8 run.”
The final showdown is scheduled for 18h00 at the Mbombela Stadium on Saturday, 13 September 2025.