Barker ready for ‘confident’ Pirates outfit

As the MTN8 semifinals commences this weekend, Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker is preparing to face a ‘confident’ Orlando Pirates outfit at the Athlone Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Kick-off is at 3pm (SA, GMT+2)

After a swift start to the 2023/24 DStv Premiership campaign, Stellenbosch FC, Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns will feature in the MTN8 semifinals on Saturday and Sunday.

Match Background

Stellies form sheet does not make a good reading heading into the tie and recorded back-to-back defeats against SuperSport United and Kaizer Chiefs in the league.

However, the Cape Side can take solace in the fact that they’ve already beat the Buccaneers this season, which came in the form of a 1-0 victory in their league opener last month. As for the MTN8 tournament, Stellies overcame a stubborn SuperSport United in the quarterfinals, with Andre De Jong netting a 99th minute winner at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on the 13th of August.

Since their defeat to Stellenbosch, Pirates are currently on a six-match undefeated streak in all competitions. During this period, the Soweto giants bagged five victories and one defeat, which highlighted Jose Riveiro’s progress at the club.

In their MTN8 quarterfinal clash against Sekhukhune United, Pirates claimed a convincing 5-0 win over Babina Noko as Zakhele Lepasa inspired his team to victory with a stunning hat-trick at the Orlando Stadium last month.

Previous Meetings

In the head-to-head count, Pirates have the slight advantage over Stellenbosch in the last five matches played. The Buccaneers claimed three wins compared to just one by Stellenbosch, with two draws recorded during this period.

Players to Watch

Stellenbosch:

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