Former SuperSport United captain Thabo September has predicted that
Bloemfontein Celtic are going to win the MNT8 trophy as Siwelele are
going to play against Orlando Pirates in the final at the Moses
Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday evening (18h00).
Despite picking Phunya Sele Sele as possible winners of the final,
September has added that Pirates’ challenge for MTN8 honours cannot be
dismissed as they have made some wise choices in as far as signing
players is concerned.
”Pirates have bought good players and have good combinations. Pirates
have not won something in six years while Celtic have financial
challenges. This is the situation at the moment,” said September.
”However, Celtic coach John Maduka has done a very good job in cup
competitions reaching two finals even though he is not doing well in
league matches. Celtic are going to the final as underdogs and that is
what makes them dangerous. I can safely say that Celtic are going to
win this one.”
Meanwhile, September believes that Pirates captain Thulani Hlatshwayo
and his Celtic counterpart Ndumiso Mabena will be key during this
match.
”Hlatshwayo has done well in the Pirates defence and all eyes are
going to be on him. Mabena is also going to be a man to watch as
(Victor) Letsoalo plays off him. Mabena will do the job, especially if
he frees himself from Hlatshwayo and (Ntsikelelo) Nyauza during the
match.”
This is the second cup final for Siwelele as they lost 1-0 to Mamelodi
Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup final last season.
”Celtic have already played a final behind closed doors and know how
it’s like. I think this is a plus for them,” concluded September.
