Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye has tipped Orlando Pirates to retain the MTN8 title.
The Buccaneers begin their title defence this weekend when they host Durban City in the quarter-finals. Pirates are aiming to win the competition for a fifth consecutive season after lifting the trophy four years in a row.
Khanye believes Pirates have enough quality to go all the way despite losing star player Relebohile Mofokeng.
“Pirates are favourites,” he said ahead of the MTN8 clash with City.
“They haven’t changed their team a lot. Even though they lost their star player Relebohile Mofokeng, they beefed up their squad. I know Sundowns are a threat to any team, but there’s something we call momentum. Pirates started the season very well.
“I think, for me, Pirates will defend the MTN8. It’s straightforward,”he told iDiski TV.
The retired winger also backed Pirates to overcome Durban City, despite the Buccaneers being held by the KwaZulu-Natal side in a goalless Betway Premiership clash late last season.
“Class is permanent. If you watched that game, Pirates were without a striker and it had a huge impact. They did their homework on Rele and managed both Rele and Oswin Appollis. That game, Pirates offered nothing and failed to create chances.
Khanye tips Pirates for MTN8 glory
“They have nothing to lose, so they will try to play an open game. Last season, they also had nothing to lose; they just wanted to frustrate Orlando Pirates.”
Khanye predicted a comfortable 2-0 victory for the Buccaneers to book their place in the MTN8 semi-finals.
