Bafana Bafana Legend Predicts MTN8 Final Winner Between Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates
- Mamelodi Sundowns legend Vuyo Mere has backed his former club ahead of the MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday
- Mere acknowledged that Sundowns' defensive record this season is a concern, but believes their attacking output will be decisive in the cup showdown
- Orlando Pirates enter the final as favourites based on their cup final record against Sundowns, and boast a dangerous new-look squad
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Mamelodi Sundowns legend Vuyo Mere has predicted a 3-1 victory for Masandawana when they take on Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 final at a sold-out Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday night.
The retired right-back, who spent a significant portion of his career at Sundowns, told IOL Sport he expects an open, high-scoring contest with both sides committed to attacking football.
Mere flags Sundowns' defensive vulnerabilities
Despite backing his former club, Mere did not shy away from identifying a concern heading into the final.
"The only worrying factor is that they are conceding a lot of goals, and that's something that we are not used to," he said.
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He argued, however, that Sundowns' offensive output has been enough to compensate.
"They are a quality team that sets the standard high. So, when such things happen we think that they've lost form. Yes, they concede goals, but they outscore the team they are playing against."
Mere also acknowledged the threat Pirates carry into the match. "I think it's a worrying factor when you look at the team that they are playing against: Orlando Pirates, who have a lethal team," he said.
Pirates arrive with new-look squad and Cup pedigree
Saturday's final will mark the first meeting between the two clubs this season. Pirates arrive with a largely refreshed squad, featuring the likes of Mpho Padime, Thapelo Mkobodi, and Mthetheleli Mthiyane, and carry the status of favourites based on their cup final record against the Brazilians.
The sides did meet earlier this year, with Sundowns claiming a 2-1 win at FNB Stadium, though that result has little bearing on current cup form.
Pirates have beaten Sundowns in previous cup finals, and their potent attack will test a Sundowns backline that has shown signs of vulnerability this campaign.
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Source: Briefly News
