‘We will match them’: Stellenbosch star on Pirates ahead of MTN8 final

Published on by Nkosiyabuya Sithole

Stellenbosch FC goalkeeper Sage Stephens has asserted that they will compete fiercely against Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 final. 

The two teams are scheduled to clash for the trophy on Saturday before a full-capacity crowd at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

Stellies advanced to the final by defeating Mamelodi Sundowns, while the Buccaneers secured their place by overcoming Cape Town City.

Stephens noted that both teams are currently in good form. He expressed confidence in their ability to play with speed and highlighted the strength of their defenses, stating that the trophy could be claimed by either side on the day of the match.

SAGE STEPHENS SAYS ANYONE CAN COME OUT VICTORIOUS IN MTN8 FINAL

“I think they’re a well-coached team, if you look at their form, they’re doing very well,” said Stephens.

“They don’t concede often which is the strength of theirs. Going forward you know that with the pace they have it’s gonna be challenging.

“In the same breath, we have the same talent. We match them perfectly because if you look at it both teams are in form at the moment.

'We will match them': Stellenbosch star on Pirates ahead of MTN8 final
Sage Stephens – Picture by Stellenbosch FC

“We’re also not conceding often which is a good thing, our defence is strong.

“I think it’s a once off, on the day who pitches up is going to take the trophy.”

Stephens noted that their previous CAF Confederation Cup match against AS Vita Club prepared them well for the large and enthusiastic crowd at the MTN8 final. 

The Vita fans filled the stadium, creating a challenging atmosphere, but Stellenbosch successfully overcame the pressure and achieved their desired result.

HOW CAF EXPERIENCE WILL HELP IN THE FINAL

“Our experience that we had in Kinshasa also prepared us well for this coming weekend,” he added.

“The stadium was full, fans were phenomenal. They put us under pressure and in the same game we didn’t start off the best.

“I think with a sold-out event, there’s gonna be nerves no matter what you do. I just think we just need to use the fans to motivate ourselves to work harder.”

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Nkosiyabuya Sithole

Nkosiyabuya Sithole, a young and rising sports journalist based in Durban, South Africa, harbors a deep passion for football. Nevertheless, he aspires to become a well-rounded journalist, adept in various areas of the field.

Nkosi's career began in 2020, working as a home-based writer during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has since written for various websites, including Briefly News, FiND-iT News, and The South African. Attending live sporting events is a particular pleasure for him, as they provide opportunities for interaction with sports personalities.

Outside of the office, he's a God-fearing and affable young man.