Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena admits that Orlando Pirates are a “different opponents” in cup competitions ahead of the MTN8 final on Saturday.

Sundowns are set to face Pirates in the final of the MTN8 competition when the two sides meet at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

The Brazilians come into this fixture off the back off a 2-0 victory over Bumamuru FC in the Caf Champions League this past weekend.

The Buccaneers, meanwhile, will look to bounce back after they suffered a 5-4 defeat on penalties at the hands of Jwaneng Galaxy FC in the Caf Champions League.

Mokwena says they are well prepared for the upcoming final as they look to dethrone Pirates in this competition.

“We have been preparing very well. We have tried to focus a little bit on what personality is needed from us on Saturday and the players have been responding well and working hard. We are looking forward to a very good game of football on Saturday,” Mokwena told his club’s official website.

“We have to get silverware but this time around we have to get it from the defending champions so we know that we come into the game playing against the champions and it puts a lot of demand on us.

“This is what cup competitions are about. The players have done exceptionally well to put the team in the final and now we just have to work for one more game. We have to make sure we start cup competitions on a good note.

“Orlando Pirates are a difficult opponent with very good players on the pitch and an opponent that’s playing its third cup final as a group, so we know and understand the magnitude of the assignment and we have to focus.”

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