Doc on MTN8 final

Both Orlando Pirates and AmaZulu FC deserve to be in the final of the MTN8 after their impressive performances on the road to the final. They went through some tough competition and got the job done, especially in the two-legged semifinals. Now that they are in the final, just because Pirates beat Mamelodi Sundowns you can’t say they are favourites to win it. The same can be said about AmaZulu because this is a completely different game. There are two differences that I’ve noticed between the two teams, based on what I saw in the semis.

Sundowns v Pirates was a game of high intensity and a very tactical battle. There was also individual brilliance, with players like Monnapule Saleng and Kermit Erasmus showcasing their talent. AmaZulu v Chiefs was a very tense encounter and Usuthu really worked as a team, against all the odds stacked against them. To me, that’s the difference between the two teams going to the final. When you look at Kermit, you ask yourself why is he not part of the national team? He’s one intelligent and skillful striker. Saleng, on the other hand, is telling everyone, “Hi guys, I’ve arrived!” and that’s exactly what South African football has been lacking. When a player shows his Godgiven

talent and gives his all for his team, I don’t care about the colour of the jersey he’s wearing, I will always applaud him openly. “Will Gabadinho Mhango showcase his talent to haunt his former team?” That will be a question from someone who doesn’t really understand football. Modern football is not about individuals but a collective. Having said that, you can’t take anything away from Mhango because he’s a smart striker. There’s also Mido, George Maluleka, who is another player who has impressed me so much. He’s on another level and his Man of the Match performance in the semifinals reminded me of the Mido I know. I wish both teams all the best in the final.