Orlando Pirates legend Jerry Sikhosana says the Buccaneers have what it takes to beat league champions Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday.
The last time the Sea Robbers edged Sundowns in the league was in 2020 with a 1-0 scoreline thanks to Gabadinho Mhango’s strike.
Despite Sundowns' six-point lead at the top of the league, Sikhosana predicts a win for Pirates.
He argues that Sundowns are still adapting to new coach Miguel Cardoso. Pirates will be looking to capitalise and close the gap.
‘CARDOSO IS STILL TRYING NEW THINGS’
“Pirates have what it takes to beat Sundowns and I believe they will win on Saturday,” Sikhosana told iDiski Times.
“[Miguel] Cardoso [the new Sundowns coach] is still trying new things there and you could tell that against Mpheni [Home Defenders in the Nedbank Cup] when they conceded two goals.
“That’s something that said to me Pirates should be able to beat them.”
According to Sikhosana, this match will not be a title decider, given the numerous remaining fixtures, particularly those against the so-called “minnows”.
’THIS WILL NOT BE A TITLE DECIDER’
“I don’t think this match can be seen as a potential title decider because we’re in the first round and there is still a long way to go. So this is not a decider yet,” he added.
“For me, in the league, the challenge is always about how you do against the so-called minnows. Yes, you can beat the team that you are in direct competition with for the title and get a morale booster, but I’ve seen teams lose because they fail to make sure they don’t lose against clubs like Magesi for example.
“The reality is that the three points you get against Chiefs or Sundowns are the same as you get from TS Galaxy, so it is key to try and beat everyone. For me, the key about the weekend’s match is for Pirates to beat Sundowns and hold them from pulling away.
“If they can do that, they have a great chance of winning the league. They have a lot of things going their way this season. Riveiro is on to a great thing there. And yes, I can put my money on Pirates beating Sundowns this weekend.”
