With an exciting MTN8 semi-final in the offing between Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, the home side’s coach has been given advice with the latter expected to go all out.
Sundowns v Pirates at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday will attract by far the most eyeballs of the two MTN8 matches this weekend, with Stellenbosch FC visiting Sekhukhune United with a healthy 2-0 lead in the other.
READ | Crucial update on Van Rooyen, Sebelebele lurking
With the score tied at 1-1 from the first leg at Orlando last weekend, a 0-0 draw will see Sundowns go through to the final.
With Bucs having to go all out in search of a goal, it promises to be a thrilling encounter and fascinating tactical battle between the two technical teams.
"This is a do-or-die match,” says Joel ‘Fire’ Masilela, a former big-match player for Sundowns.
“It will essentially determine which team is more driven for success. I don't foresee Pirates coming out on top against Sundowns on Saturday, as Miguel Cardoso is likely to make some tactical adjustments.
“Pirates are known for being strategic in tournament settings. However, Sundowns can still progress, provided Cardoso gets his tactics right.
"When playing against Pirates, you need to be clever and tactically astute. You can't afford to rely solely on the result from the first leg, as tomorrow is a new game,” he continues.
The ex-winger has advised the Tshwane giants to approach the match with a ‘do-or-die’ mindset and aim for nothing less than a victory.
READ | Sebelebele given his flowers at Pirates
"Defending too much against Pirates is not advisable. Cardoso should avoid that. I noticed during the first leg that he sometimes played with five defenders.
“In the last 30 minutes, Pirates intensified their offence. They are a team that thrives on attacking, and if they catch you off guard, they can easily score lots of goals."
Kick-off is at 15:00.
Photo by Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images
