Sibisi says Orlando Pirates are ready for physical test in Soweto Derby

Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi says the club is working to improve its response to physically demanding matches as they prepare to face arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs in Saturday’s Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium.

Pirates have repeatedly been questioned over their ability to cope when opponents use aggressive challenges and physical contests to disrupt their rhythm. That debate has resurfaced before the latest meeting between the two biggest rivals in Soweto football.

Sibisi rejected the suggestion that physicality is inherently a weakness for the Buccaneers, although he acknowledged that the team is still developing in that area.

“For us, physicality is not a problem, if it’s fair. Sometimes it’s not, and why should we be judged on that as a club?” Sibisi said.

“As a club, we just want to play football in the best manner possible, and I know people say we tend to struggle when the match gets physical, but it’s not our type of game.

“We’ve been trying to grow in that aspect as a team, and so we’ll see how it goes on Saturday.”

Pirates generally favour keeping the ball on the ground and constructing attacks through their footballing style. That approach could be tested if Kaizer Chiefs attempt to make the contest more combative, with a focus on individual duels, second balls and sustained intensity.

The Buccaneers will also want to avoid allowing the occasion to pull them away from their preferred methods. The emotion and pressure surrounding the Soweto Derby can affect the pace and character of the match, particularly when both teams are competing for local bragging rights.

Sibisi and his team-mates must therefore deal with Chiefs’ intensity without abandoning the principles they believe give Pirates an advantage. The captain’s comments suggest the club recognises that technical quality may not be enough if the game develops into a physical battle.

Orlando Pirates enter the fixture as defending Betway Premiership champions. However, their preparations have included a focus on becoming more effective when opponents challenge them in a direct and physically demanding manner.

Sibisi’s assessment may also give Kaizer Chiefs an indication of where they could look to disrupt the champions. Pirates, though, will be hoping their work in this area allows them to maintain control and demonstrate progress when the two sides meet.

With league points as well as derby pride at stake, Saturday’s match will offer another indication of whether Pirates can preserve their identity when opponents try to take them outside their comfort zone.