Players To Watch – MTN 8 Final

Romain Folz leads AmaZulu in their first MTN 8 final in 46 years. The Frenchman had his first win in South African football over the weekend beating Stellenchosch 1-0 at home. The crucial win for Folz and Usuthu should be a motivation enough ahead of their historic final against The Buccaneers. 

On the other side, Pirates will be playing their sixth MTN 8 final since MTN took over sponsorship of the competition in 2008, having won three titles in 2010, 2011 & 2020. 

Here we look at the players to watch and that could produce magic on the day.

Gabadinho Mango – AmaZulu

Gabadinho Mango is no stranger to the big games and big events such as MTN 8 final, having won it with Wits and Orlando Pirates in the past. The Malawian international is in scoring form for Usuthu, he scored their away goals against Kaizer Chiefs that helped them to reach the final.

Ndabayithethwa Phillip Ndlondlo – Orlando Pirates

Even though Orlando Pirates didn’t win in the Soweto derby leading to the MTN 8 final, The club’s history should be a motivation enough for the 27-year-old as he’s looking to bag his second trophy in his cabinet. Ndlondlo has a Nedbank Cup that he won with Marumo Gallants last season, in this final he’s one player who will be determined to win his second silverware in the PSL.

Keagan Buchanan – AmaZulu

The fixer is yet to win his first Silverware since joining Bloemfontein Celtics back in 2013 from the lower division, his long-range passes could come in handy this weekend to clinch his first-ever cup in South African top-flight Football. Buchanan has featured in all three MTN 8 matches leading to the final and has played an imperative role.