Orlando Pirates will win or lose the MTN8 final as a collective, but three players in the spine of the team have especially important jobs. Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, midfielder Thapelo Mokobodi and striker Yanela Mbuthuma will each shape how Pirates fare against Mamelodi Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium (18:00 kick-off).
Sipho Chaine: The Organiser at the Back
Chaine has been one of Pirates’ most dependable performers for three seasons. His role goes beyond shot-stopping, as he must also organise the back four.
The Bloemfontein-born keeper has posted a 91.7% save percentage, with 11 saves in five local matches, four clean sheets and just one goal conceded. With the ball, he has completed 83.6% of his passes (1,011 in total) and holds an average match rating of 7.44. His reflexes could be tested by attackers such as Tashreeq Matthews and Brayan Leon.
Thapelo Mokobodi: The Heartbeat of Midfield
Mokobodi has to create play in the middle against Teboho Mokoena, one of Africa’s best midfielders. The 23-year-old balances attacking and defensive duties within a tactical plan shaped by the technical team, including assistant coach Rayan Jacobs.
He made an impressive start, with 91% passing accuracy on debut (58 of 64 passes). Defensively, he averages three tackles, four interceptions and three recoveries a match. If he wins the ball and distributes it well, Pirates can control the midfield and limit Sundowns’ counter-attacks.
Yanela Mbuthuma: The Pressing Spearhead
Up front, Mbuthuma carries the responsibility in the final third. He answered early-season criticism with two goals in six league appearances and leads the club with 11 chances created. He also wins fouls and draws defenders out of position.
His work rate, movement and physical presence can open space for teammates such as Oswin Appollis and Tshepang Moremi. A recent senior Bafana Bafana call-up shows how far he has come.
Which other Pirates player could make the difference tonight? Share your thoughts in the comments.
