Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane has clarified why players from Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns were used sparingly during the recent international break. The two teams are set to face each other in the MTN8 final on Saturday. Mosimane's side beat Egypt 1-0 in a friendly match, with several players from both Pirates and Sundowns featuring in the match. The coach emphasized the importance of managing the players' workload ahead of the highly anticipated final.
Mosimane's decision to rest some players was motivated by a desire to protect them from injury, rather than showing favoritism to either team. Players like Khulumani Ndamane and Thapelo Morena of Mamelodi Sundowns, and Tshepang Moremi of Orlando Pirates, were among those who were used sparingly. The coach revealed that he had to monitor the players from both teams to ensure that they were not overexerting themselves. This approach was taken to maintain a strong relationship with both clubs ahead of the MTN8 final.
The Bafana Bafana squad was largely made up of players from Pirates and Sundowns, including Ronwen Williams, Themba Zwane, and Iqraam Rayners. Mosimane handed Nkosinathi Sibisi a late introduction in the game to manage his workload, as he was returning from an injury. The coach also provided an update on Aubrey Modiba's availability for the MTN8 final, revealing that he had participated in the last training session.
Mosimane's team selection for the friendly match against Egypt was also an opportunity to give debuts to young players like Shandre Campbell and Puso Dithejane. The coach was pleased with the result and performance, especially after starting a largely makeshift team from the one that defeated Guinea and Eritrea in the 2027 Afcon qualifiers.
The MTN8 final is set to be a highly competitive match, with both Sundowns and Pirates having had an explosive start to the season. Sundowns are currently top of the log with 20 points, one ahead of Pirates, who have a game in hand. A win for either team would cap off their impressive performances so far.
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has expressed his excitement ahead of the MTN8 final, describing both Pirates and Sundowns as South Africa's strongest teams and champions. The match is expected to be a thrilling encounter, with high stakes for both teams.
The MTN8 final is set to take place on Saturday at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, with kickoff at 6pm. The match will be a significant test for both teams, and Mosimane's cautious approach with his players may prove to be a crucial factor in the outcome of the match.
Key points
- Pitso Mosimane's Bafana Bafana side beat Egypt 1-0 in a friendly match ahead of the MTN8 final.
- Mosimane's decision to rest players from Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns was motivated by a desire to protect them from injury.
- The MTN8 final is set to be a highly competitive match, with both Sundowns and Pirates having had an impressive start to the season.
