Orlando Pirates midfielder Deon Hotto has downplayed suggestions that they are favourites to lift the MTN8 title in the final on Saturday.

The Buccaneers are set to take on Stellenbosch FC in the top-eight final played at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

The Soweto giants will have the chance at making history by becoming the first team to win the top-eight trophy three times in a row.

Hotto, who scored one goal in three appearances leading up to the final, has praised head coach Jose Riveiro and believes his side can successfully defend their title.

“Not really but since we are the defending champions for sure we have to be the favourites and we really want to win,” Hotto said.

“We want to defend this trophy for the third time and it’s going to be history for us, the club, and the supporters.

“I believe that we can all see the football that he’s brought into this club and the accolades also.”