Orlando Pirates defender Tapelo Xoki has revealed how the Buccaneers are approaching a high-pressure fixture such as the MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns, with some labelling them as favourites after winning the trophy four years in a row.
The two giants will meet in the much-anticipated final at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday, 10 October, with Pirates aiming to lift the trophy for a fifth consecutive time.
The Sea Robbers have enjoyed a dominant run in the competition in recent seasons and have also beaten Sundowns in their last two cup-final meetings.
However, Xoki insists previous finals will have no bearing on Saturday’s showdown. The Pirates defender says the team will block out the outside noise and focus solely on executing their game plan on the day.
“What has worked for us is to always approach each final as that final. Not play the finals before. The finals we’ve played in the past are all in the past,” said Xoki when asked whether Pirates have the favourites tag.
“The results of the past are all history now. So, for us, it’s a game where you focus on what’s needed on the day. The coach and his technical staff will help us in terms of preparation and what to look out for.
“And then get the experience of when it’s tough in the game. You have the head guys, the guys who are used to the pressure. But other than that, it’s just playing the game and focussing on the game.
“Leave the outside noise but purely focus on the game on the day.”