Orlando Pirates will face Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00.
The defending champions are preparing for another meeting with Sundowns as they attempt to extend their remarkable record in the competition.
One of the latest developments surrounding the Buccaneers is the return of midfielder Thalente Mbatha to full training.
Mbatha Returns After Knee Injury
Mbatha has been sidelined for almost two months after suffering a knee injury, but the 26-year-old has now resumed full training with the Pirates squad.
His return provides the coaching staff with another midfield option ahead of the final, although his involvement and role in the match will depend on the team‘s final selection.
The midfielder’s return has also attracted considerable attention from Pirates supporters on social media, with many fans expressing optimism about his potential involvement against Sundowns.
Pirates Chase Another MTN8 Milestone
Pirates enter the final as the defending champions and are seeking what would be an unprecedented fifth consecutive MTN8 title.
The Buccaneers have established themselves as a dominant force in the competition over recent seasons, and Saturday’s encounter provides another opportunity to extend that run.
Their opponents, Sundowns, will be looking to prevent Pirates from adding another trophy to their recent MTN8 success.
Appollis Continues to Attract Attention
While preparations continue for the final, Oswin Appollis is also attracting interest from clubs outside South Africa.
French Ligue 1 side Strasbourg is reportedly monitoring the 25-year-old’s performances for Pirates, following earlier reports of interest from Portuguese club Porto.
Appollis has strengthened his profile with a series of notable performances for both club and country.
Bafana Performance Highlights Appollis’ Form
The Pirates forward recently played a significant role in Bafana Bafana’s 5-0 victory over Eritrea, providing three assists.
It was not the first time Appollis had registered three assists in an international match, having achieved the same feat against Congo in 2024.
His club form has also been productive this season. He has recorded two goals and two assists in seven Betway Premiership appearances.
Pirates Players Set for Supporter Events
Pirates supporters will also have an opportunity to meet members of the squad before the final.
The club has scheduled appearances in Durban on Friday, 9 October, beginning with an event at Studio 88 in Durban Central between 12:00 and 13:00.
Players are also expected at Pavilion Shopping Centre, where the supporter event is scheduled to run from 12:00 until 17:00.
Focus Turns to Moses Mabhida
With the final approaching, attention will ultimately shift to the meeting with Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
The possible return of Mbatha gives Pirates another selection option, while Appollis enters the match after a productive spell for both club and country.
The two sides will meet on Saturday at 18:00, with the MTN8 trophy at stake and Pirates seeking to continue their recent run of success in the competition.
