Five players that need to step up in the MTN8 final
MAMELODI Sundowns and Cape Town City will be eager to win the first trophy of the season when they square off in the MTN8 final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium this weekend. Here we look at key players that will have to step up for their teams.
DENIS ONYANGO – SUNDOWNS Onyango is the most consistent goalkeeper in the top-flight. He has been a pillar of strength for Sundowns and he’s yet to concede in six league matches this term. Onyango’s only blemishes have been in the Champions League and MTN8.
Onyango is a great all-round keeper, he’s exceptional on one-on-one duels, dealing with aerial threats and making fine stops, from long and close range. He’s the captain of the team, leading on-and-off the pitch. His experience has also rubbed off to the rookies.
PETER SHALULILE – SUNDOWNS
Shalulile is the most lethal striker in the elite division at the moment. In 11 matches, he’s racked up eight goals. He is yet to register an assist in all competitions but his teammates know how unselfish he is - week-in and week-out.
Shalulile has got pace and he keeps defenders on their toes. But it is perhaps his ability to exploit pockets of space and knack for goal that makes him stand out. He is known to take instruction well from coaches, something that ensures he gets better with every game.
RIVALDO COETZEE – SUNDOWNS
Coetzee has been Sundowns’ catalyst in the midfield for some time now. He's a gamble that has paid off for the team, given that he was converted into that role by former coach Pitso Mosimane. He cleans up well for the defenders too.
His understanding of the game makes him stand head and shoulders above his counterparts. His accurate pass rate is impressive. And that he’s been overlooked by Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has set some tongues wagging.
THABO NODADA – CT CITY Few midfielders are as good as Nodada in the top-flight. His versatility has enabled him to play various positions. That might have given coach Eric Tinkler a few good headaches. Nodada is at his best when he plays just behind the strikers.
He's got a knack for goal. He's also influential in build-ups, and has been involved in a number of goals for his team since returning from an injury. That’s why he’ll be eager to bind the team together when they clash with
Sundowns.
BRADLEY RALANI – CT CITY Ralani is ageing like fine wine. The 34-year-old currently holds the record of being the Citizens’ highest ever goal scorer. He achieved that feat in less than three years, having joined the Cape Town club in January 2018 after a stint in Sweden.
Ralani specialises in space and trickery. His ability to be in the right place at the right time presents him with plenty of opportunities to hit the back of the net. That’s why it’s relatively easy for him to score and assist. He will know that he’ll have to work twice as hard on Saturday night.