Lucky Lekgwathi throws weight behind Benni McCarthy and Cape Town City ahead of the MTN8 final

With the MTN8 Cup final taking centre stage this weekend where SuperSport United  will want to defend their title against Cape Town City, legend Lucky Lekgwathi has backed the Mother City-based club to triumph.

Lekgwathi lifted the trophy as captain of Orlando Pirates a few seasons before hanging up his boots, and he reckons Benni McCarthy's men will not stutter this season.

“You know what... it's going to be a tough contest between the two clubs. SuperSport will want to win the title back-to-back while Benni wants to lift his first trophy as a coach,” Lekgwathi told Goal.

“In my opinion, I see City showing confidence and I think they deserve to lift this one. If they carry on with their fighting spirit they showed against Pirates, I am sure they will surprise SuperSport,” he responded.

“They came back from 2-0 down and they also played well against (Kaizer) Chiefs despite the loss in the league,” added the legend.

Looking at team news, the Citizens are set to be without defender Taariq Fielies, who is ruled out due to suspension, but Lekgwathi said McCarthy will find a suitable replacement.

MTN/Goal

On the other hand, he said Tokelo Rantie could be available for the clash to bolster their attacking options, saying the Bafana Bafana striker needs no introduction in top flight football.

“It's sad for them because they do not have one of their key players in Fielies, who is suspended, but Benni is wiser now and he will find a plan to sort that out,” noted the legend.

“I also think Rantie can play and the two understand each other. You will remember they played together at Pirates, and Rantie is a great striker. He will threaten SuperSport's defence because they are slow,” he explained.

“Yes, SuperSport beat two big teams in Chiefs and Pirates, and Tembo will always remind his men that we are in the final because we beat so and so,” he continued.

“That might work for them in terms of morale and confidence, but City also defeated (Mamelodi) Sundowns and they will definitely want to win this time after losing last year,” concluded the 42-year-old.