MTN 8 FINAL – WAFA WAFA


Golden Arrows vs. Ajax Cape Town

The MTN 8 final fever has hit Soweto and Saturday will see two MTN sponsored sides go head to head. The winner will walk away with a cool 8 million rands and the cool MTN trophy. Orlando Stadium is the venue and 8: 15 pm is kickoff time where one team will walk away winners of this prestigious competition.

The Ajax caretaker coach says, “We have a 60 – 40 % chance of winning the final.” On paper Ajax are the favorites to win this encounter as they have played in more cup finals. Golden Arrows are playing in their first ever final since their promotion to the elite league. Manqoba Mnqithi seems to think that his charges will not be overcome by the occasion. “Our objective has always been to win the final this season. Ajax’s cup pedigree belongs in the history books”, the Arrows coach says.

Going into the match Ajax have an upper hand. However, Golden Arrows seem to have a full complement of player compared to Ajax. Ajax has almost 10 players out and two key players doubtful, Brett Evans and Nhlanhla Shabalala.

The Players

The Ajax coach has seen little of Golden Arrows but he has pointed out that they are dangerous in attack and that Richard Henyekane is the main threat. “Arrows play a good game and they score some good goals, especially Henyekane”, the Ajax coach says. The Ajax central defense pairing has looked solid in recent matches but they were badly exposed by Kaizer Chiefs 3 weeks ago. Arrows play a more direct, aggressive brand of football, which could really test the Ajax defense.

Arrows’ defense will have to pay close attention to under-20 international Thulani Serero, Franklin Cale and unsung hero Sifiso Vilakazi. On the other hand Ajax will do well to plan against Golden Arrows silent assassin, Nhlanhla Zothwane. He is a player who can turn the game on its head with his ability to create goals and finish them with great aplomb.

Who will be the last man standing?