Orlando Pirates could have a surprise selection up their sleeve when they face Mamelodi Sundowns in Saturday’s MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
The Buccaneers are chasing an unprecedented fifth consecutive MTN8 title, but the biggest talking point ahead of the showdown could be the return of two experienced players who have been sidelined through injury.
Training images have sparked speculation that Kabelo Dlamini could be in contention for the final, while Thalente Mbatha has also returned to full training.
Dlamini could make surprise return
Pirates supporters were quick to notice Kabelo Dlamini featuring in training pictures ahead of the final.
The versatile 30-year-old has yet to make an appearance this season after recovering from injury, but his return to training has raised the possibility of a comeback against Sundowns.
Dlamini is a popular figure among the Pirates faithful and is capable of operating in several positions, with his left foot adding another dimension to the Buccaneers’ attack.
However, his presence in training does not necessarily mean he will start — or even feature — at Moses Mabhida.
With the final representing one of the biggest matches of the domestic season, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou will have to carefully assess Dlamini’s fitness before making a decision.
Mbatha provides another boost
Pirates have received another encouraging boost with Thalente Mbatha back in full training.
The 26-year-old midfielder has been sidelined for almost two months with a knee injury, but his return comes at an ideal time for the defending MTN8 champions.
Mbatha’s energy and ball-winning ability could prove valuable against a Sundowns midfield packed with quality.
His availability would also give Ouaddou another option as Pirates look to control the tempo of Saturday’s final.
The match takes place on 10 October at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00.
Appollis enters the final in form
One player expected to attract plenty of attention is Oswin Appollis.
The 25-year-old winger has been in excellent form for both club and country, most recently starring for Bafana Bafana during their international victories.
Appollis provided three assists in South Africa’s 5-0 victory over Eritrea, matching the three-assist performance he produced against Congo in 2024.
His club numbers have also been encouraging, with two goals and two assists in seven Betway Premiership appearances this season.
The winger is reportedly attracting interest from French club Strasbourg, while Portuguese giants Porto have also been linked with him.
A standout display against Sundowns could only increase the attention surrounding the Pirates star.
Are Pirates favourites?
Pirates enter the final with enormous confidence and an outstanding MTN8 record, but Sundowns remain one of the strongest sides in the country.
The Buccaneers will be hoping their experience in the competition gives them the edge as they attempt to make history with a fifth successive title.
Whether Dlamini makes his long-awaited return, Mbatha gets minutes or Appollis produces another decisive performance, Ouaddou has several intriguing selection options at his disposal.
The big question is: will Pirates spring a surprise against Sundowns?
