sportskeeda
Aubrey Modiba, a crucial member of Mamelodi Sundowns, is calling on Orbit College to hinder Orlando Pirates’ quest for the Betway Premiership title on the final match day, thus preserving Chloorkop’s chances for an extraordinary domestic and continental double.
Orlando Pirates let slip an excellent chance to seize the Betway Premiership title after settling for a draw with Durban City FC at the Orlando Amstel Arena—an outcome they needed to secure the championship.
While the Sundowns players and staff were getting ready for the first leg of the CAF Champions League Final against AS FAR at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Sunday, they were keenly observing the match where Modiba scored the pivotal goal.
Sundowns wrapped up their season with 68 points from 30 matches. Following their scoreless draw against Durban City at the Orlando Amstel Arena, Pirates now sit at 66 points with one match still to play (29 games completed).
A win against Orbit College would not only match their points but also solidify their championship claim thanks to a higher goal difference.
The Soweto giants will have another chance to clinch the title on Saturday against Orbit College at Mbombela Stadium, where a victory will secure the championship.
Due to the unavailability of Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Orbit College is shifting this critical match, which may diminish their home-field advantage, favoring the traveling Buccaneers.
“We were carefully watching that game. We genuinely believe that anything can happen,” Modiba commented.
“Nonetheless, we recognize the quality within Orlando Pirates and their strong aspiration to win the league.
“We hope for a similar result in the final match. We will continue to hope and pray, but we firmly hold onto our belief.”
The vital second leg of the Champions League final is scheduled to occur at Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah this weekend—the same location that hosted the Africa Cup of Nations Final between Morocco and Senegal earlier this year.
The atmosphere in Rabat is anticipated to be electric, with coach Miguel Cardoso acknowledging that his players must “tune out distractions” and remain focused for the match.
As Sundowns chase their second CAF Champions League title, they are making their second consecutive final appearance after last year’s loss to Pyramids FC.
Modiba, who was substituted due to a muscle strain, conveyed the team’s determination to make a historic mark this time around.
“We aim to create a legacy for this incredible club,” he noted.
“The class of 2016 was just as driven, as we are now. We can’t celebrate just yet, as we still have a tough battle ahead in Morocco. We expect their fans to rally behind them wholeheartedly.
“As you witnessed, they filled the stadium; they will approach this match with a unique fervor. We hope our ambitions can come to fruition after all the dedication we’ve invested since joining the team.”
