Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine has urged his teammates to remain focused on the task at hand as they aim to secure a historic third consecutive MTN8 title.
The Buccaneers will face Stellenbosch FC in the final at a sold-out Moses Mabhida stadium on Saturday. Pirates have enjoyed remarkable success under coach Jose Riveiro, winning four domestic trophies since his appointment in 2022.
While Pirates have dominated the MTN8, Stellenbosch has emerged as a formidable opponent. The Cape side defeated Mamelodi Sundowns in both legs of the semifinals and are expected to provide a stern test for Pirates.
“We’re expecting a very tough match from them, ” Chaine said.
“We know they’re a perfect side and we know the threat they pose to every team they play against, so we’ll do our best to prepare and do the best that we know we can.”
Given Orlando Pirates’ previous two MTN8 victories at Moses Mabhida stadium, goalkeeper Sipho Chaine has urged his teammates to concentrate on the present challenge rather than dwelling on past successes.
Chaine stressed the importance of maintaining focus and avoiding complacency as they strive for a historic third consecutive title.
“The best thing I can do for myself and the best thing we can do as Orlando Pirates is to focus on the game this weekend and not dwell on the success that we’ve had in the past and that’s the most important thing for me personally, ” he stated.
“I think the most important thing for us is to play the match and not focus much on the occasion, but it’ll always ring in your mind, the expectations and the type of game that you are playing.
“We must focus on the game and what we are trying to execute like we’ve been doing since the start of the season – to push ourselves to win games, to get better as a team and I think that’s the most important thing we should focus on this weekend.”
Sipho Chaine, who played a pivotal role in Orlando Pirates’ MTN8 triumph last season by saving three penalties in the shootout against Mamelodi Sundowns, attributes his heroics to his personal development. Chaine’s performance in that final served as a source of inspiration for him going into that season.
“It’s a confidence booster to be able to help the team, ” said the 27-year-old goal-minder.
“I know everyone helped the team in his way, and I think it helped me going forward into the season and into the player that I’ve become today.
“It really helps a lot to have your confidence high and have good performances for a club like Orlando Pirates, ” added Chaine, who made his Bafana debut last month.