DailySun
The Orlando Pirates have the opportunity to rise to the top of the Betway Premiership by overcoming Cape Town City at DHL Stadium this Wednesday (19:30).
The Pirates are currently positioned with 27 points, just three points shy of the leaders, Mamelodi Sundowns (30), who have played one more match. The teams boast similar statistics, with the Pirates netting 22 goals and conceding only four.
Assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has praised Cape Town City’s new manager, Muhsin Ertugral, highlighting his experience as a tactician poised to rejuvenate the team ahead of Wednesday’s clash.
City is now under the guidance of former Pirates coach Ertugral, who took over from Eric Tinkler earlier this year.
Ertugral commenced his reign on a high, leading City to a win against Kaizer Chiefs—another of his former clubs—at DHL Stadium on Sunday.
Conversely, City is preparing to face a Pirates team in formidable form, following their recent 3-0 triumph against Stade d’Abidjan in the CAF Champions League group stage match over the weekend.
The Pirates have an added boost from their earlier 2-0 victory against City during the MTN8 second-leg semifinal at Orlando Stadium this season. The first leg at DHL Stadium ended in a 1-1 stalemate, setting the stage for an electrifying encounter in Cape Town this Wednesday.
Despite their recent successful run, Ncikazi recognizes that City under Ertugral will present a tough challenge.
“This presents another chance for the team to earn crucial points,” Ncikazi remarked.
“The match won’t be easy, as they boast a very experienced coach, fresh strategies, and revitalized energy.
“They will come into this match highly motivated after their last performance. Nevertheless, we remain focused with a commitment to the forthcoming match and a desire to elevate our game.
“We are determined to perform at our best and secure three points against Cape Town City.”
The Pirates will be missing their key player, Makhehleni Makhaula, who is suspended due to accumulating yellow cards.
