ORLANDO PIRATES READY TO CLAIM DERBY VICTORY

Written by on January 28, 2025

Written by: Nompumelelo Mncube

Orlando Pirates’ players reported for training as they will start full preparations for the upcoming, much anticipated sold out Soweto Derby, which is set to take place on Saturday against their arch rivals Kaizer Chiefs at the FNB stadium. The Sea Robbers are fresh from their Nedbank Cup last 32 match Richards Bay FC and will look to use that momentum in preparing for the derby.

This will be the first time the two Soweto giants of South African football play each other this season when they meet each other at the calabash on Saturday. The second-round clash is scheduled to take place at the same venue in May. The Buccaneers are boosted with the return of two key players in Sipho Chaine who was left out of the matchday squad against the Natal Rich Boys to avoid losing him for the Chiefs clash as he is one match away from suspension, having accumulated three yellow cards and Nkosinathi Sibisi who missed the trip to Durban due to suspension with four yellow cards he accumulated.

This Derby won’t be a walk in the park for Pirates, looking at the fact that Chiefs announced the signing of three star players in Tashreeq Morris, Thabo Cele, and Glody Makabi Lilepo just before the big game. Morris and Cele could be available for the derby while Lilepo still awaits his work permit before he could be available for selection in a quest to make the matchday squad on a regular basis.

Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi spoke before the media at the Rand stadium, said that it’s a game of high magnitude.

“It’s a big match on Saturday, one cannot exaggerate or highlight it more. As Orlando Pirates, we have prepared well, we want to perform as usual and win the game,” said Ncikazi.

Club captain innocent Maela, also spoke before the media to share thoughts from the players’ perspective.

“From the players’ perspective, we are looking forward to the match, it’s always exciting playing a big match such as this. The level of experience we have accumulated all these years, we are able to stay within the plan and know how to focus and make sure we go out and perform to the best of our abilities,” said Maela.

The Soweto derby continues to inspire passion, pride, and unforgettable moments in South African football.


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