By Michael Madyira
Orlando Pirates are out to banish 2022 as a jinxed year when they take on AmaZulu in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.
Six months after they lost the Caf Confederation Cup final to Moroccan side RS Berkane, the Buccaneers find themselves in another decider of a knockout competition.
It is their last shot at silverware in 2022 and they are keen to avoid the grim prospect of losing two finals within six months and ending the year empty-handed.
Having already impressed in the MTN8 by knocking out defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the semi-finals, Pirates are bidding to reclaim the trophy they last won two seasons ago.
“It’s been a while since we’ve won a trophy so we have the will and desire to win and keep the trophy,” said Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi.
“Having been a part of the losing side in Nigeria [against RS Berkane in May] and also being here now, maybe this time around luck will be on our side.
“Sometimes you have to work for your luck and I’m hoping that this time around we’ve done enough to earn our luck.
Ncikazi has mentioned the need for luck after they agonisingly lost the Confederation Cup on penalties following a 1-1 draw with Berkane after extra time.
Pirates are the second-most successful team in the MTN8 with 10 titles after Soweto rivals Kaizer Chiefs who are on 15 trophies.
On the other hand, the Buccaneers’ opponents AmaZulu have never won this competition before.
Their coach Romain Folz is aware he could engrave his name in the club’s history books if he inspires them to the winners’ podium.
“We’re all aware of the history of the club with regards to finals and trophies,” said Folz, the youngest coach in the PSL.
“We understand what the win will mean to the club and the fans. We are playing for so many people and we’re in no position to let them down. We are always going to give it our best shot,” Folz said.
Image source: @Orlando Pirates
