Orlando Pirates embrace favourites’ tag before sold-out Soweto Derby

Orlando Pirates will not hide from their status as favourites when they face Kaizer Chiefs in Saturday’s sold-out Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg.

The two Soweto rivals meet in one of the biggest fixtures in the South African football calendar, with both sides seeking a result that underlines their ambitions. Pirates media officer Thandi Merafe said her club’s strong start is a continuation of the form that saw them crowned Betway Premiership champions last season.

Speaking at Thursday’s Soweto Derby press conference in Randburg, Merafe pointed to Pirates’ consistency, attacking threat and defensive record as evidence of their current strength.

“We cannot ignore the run that we’ve had. It’s been an amazing run, a continuation from the previous season, where we were the champions of the Betway Premiership,” she said.

“We go into this Soweto Derby as the champions of the Betway Premiership, and that holds its own weight. Obviously, we’ve had an amazing run. If you look at the stats, we literally haven’t lost at all at this stage. We’ve had just one draw, and the goals are coming thick and fast.”

Pirates’ performances have attracted attention because of their goalscoring exploits, but Merafe believes their approach has been just as significant. She said the team’s style reflects how well the players understand the demands of the technical team.

“But I think it’s the style of football, for me, that defines Orlando Pirates Football Club and has always defined Orlando Pirates Football Club over the years. That tells you that we’re in a very good space, that the players understand what’s required of them from the technical team.

“Just looking at the team that the management has put together, it’s really amazing. They’ve put this together pretty well, and that’s a great way to get results,” she added.

Merafe also praised Pirates’ defensive structure, stressing that the team’s progress has not been built solely on its attacking output. Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine was singled out for his contribution as the club continues to maintain one of the highest clean-sheet records.

“It’s not just about scoring goals, but the entire team. At the back, we have been very solid, and I think we’re still maintaining one of the highest clean-sheet records, thanks to our goalkeeper.

“So, yeah, we’re doing well, and we’re not going to shy away from that and say we are underdogs or downplay who we are and what we want to do.”

Rather than approaching the derby cautiously, Pirates intend to pursue maximum points against their bitter rivals.

“We’re looking to win the Soweto Derby this weekend, and that’s the mentality going into this match,” Merafe concluded.

With the stadium sold out, Bucs will now attempt to convert their confidence and impressive run into a winning performance against Amakhosi on Saturday.