MTN8 talking points: Chaine’s heroics, Williams’ milestone and Barker’s masterstroke

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso broke down the heartbreak of Saturday’s defeat, pointing to penalties and an exceptional performance by Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine as the turning point.

Chaine’s heroics in the shoot-out were a reminder of how individual brilliance can shape the outcome of a match.

Not so magical milestone for Ronwen Williams

Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams reached a remarkable milestone on Saturday, making his 500th professional club start in the MTN8 semi-final second leg in Atteridgeville.

The 33-year-old became the fourth-highest appearance maker in South African football history, while also extending his record as the goalkeeper with the most domestic matches played. Just days earlier, Williams celebrated his 499th start with a clean sheet in Sundowns’ 2-0 Betway Premiership win over Magesi.

Yet, on this landmark occasion, it was Pirates’ Chaine who stole the spotlight, saving two penalties to secure his side’s place in the final.

Pirates coach Ouaddou rolls the dice

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou believes he is slowly winning over his critics after guiding the Buccaneers to the MTN8 final with a 4-1 penalty triumph over Sundowns, following a tense 2-2 aggregate draw.

The Moroccan’s bold tactical tweaks during the clash drew attention, but Ouaddou was quick to temper the praise. “We must remain humble in this profession. Some might consider me a genius for a couple of adjustments, but that’s not how I see it. Today, everything clicked,” he said.

Sundowns in a good space despite transfer chatter

Despite mounting speculation about unsettled players and growing fan frustration, Cardoso maintains all is well within the Sundowns camp.

“The food is served for breakfast and lunch, the pitches are in good condition for training, and everything is running smoothly,” he said. “We’re maintaining our calm, and the players report for training as usual every morning.”

Barking up the right tree – Stellies shine

Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker masterminded his side’s MTN8 semi-final success against Sekhukhune with a clear plan: score first and control the game.

“There were two ways to win this game or get through to the final: it was to score first, which I felt would make it really difficult for Sekhukhune to then score four to get through,” Barker explained.

His players executed the strategy with precision, showing aggression and composure to seal their place in the final.

Pirates’ cocomelons causing a buzz

Pirates’ youthful core is fast becoming a driving force. Chaine reserved special praise for Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Lebone Seema and Relebohile Mofokeng.

“They are amazing,” he said. “In my short career, I haven’t seen boys at that age doing what they are doing.”

Mbokazi and Seema, both 20, have impressed with maturity beyond their years, while Mofokeng’s flair and creativity have already made him a fan favourite.