As the highly anticipated MTN8 semifinal between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns approaches, one soccer pundit believes the match is already a foregone conclusion.
The first leg of the showdown will take place this Saturday at a sold-out Orlando Stadium, but not everyone expects a closely contested affair.
The Mighty Buccaneers have had a difficult start to the season, and the pressure is mounting on new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. His early tenure has already faced criticism, with his team selection in the first three matches drawing questions from fans and pundits alike.
Speaking on Soccer Betting News’ YouTube channel, African football pundit Mogale Sathekge expressed his strong opinion on the matter. “He’s gonna get a drubbing, a serious drubbing,” Sathekge declared.
He further elaborated, “Without any fear or favor, I’m not gonna back down, Sundowns is more likely to give Pirates three or four on Saturday. If he continues with the likes of Mashiloane and whoever, he will regret on Saturday.”
Adding to Pirates’ woes, they will be without several key players due to injury. Ouaddou confirmed that captain Nkosinathi Sibisi, defender Olisa Ndah, and last season’s PSL Midfielder of the Season, Makhehleni Makhaula, are all ruled out of the cup fixture.
The first leg of the MTN8 semi-final clash is set to kick off at 15:00 on Saturday at Orlando Stadium.