Maritzburg United defender Siyanda Xulu believes his side will be up against a Free State Stars team that has experience playing in cup finals, writes DYLAN APPOLIS.

The 26-year-old  has played a key role for the Team of Choice during the 2017-18 campaign, having scored three goals from 37 appearances in all competitions.

Xulu says they will be up against formidable opponents when they take on an experienced Ea Lla Koto side at Cape Town Stadium on Saturday.

‘Stars are a hardworking, experienced side,’ Xulu said.

‘They have played in finals before, I think there are about six or seven of them who have experience of Cup finals, so they know how to go about such big games.

‘What is going to be important is for us to match them for hard work. They are also a pressing, aggressive team, and we have to make sure that we match them for aggression.

‘But, while Stars have their strengths, we have to stick to our own game and what has worked for us this season. We have to continue to use our combination play and always focus on what we have to do.’

The former Rostov defender says he is confident his side will lift the trophy, having been on the losing side in three previous finals during his time at Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs.

‘I’ve been to three Cup finals in the PSL during my time with Sundowns and Chiefs,’ he added.

‘But I still haven’t been on the winning side. I’m hoping for fourth time lucky I am feeling confident, though.’

Maritzburg United will take on Free State Stars in the Nedbank Cup final at Cape Town Stadium on Saturday, with kick-off set for 7pm.

Photo: Gerhard Duraan/BackpagePix