Former Orlando Pirates player backs Bucs to win title ahead of Soweto Derby
HIGH EXPECTATIONS Former Orlando Pirates star Benedict Vilakazi predicts the Bucs will clinch the Betway Premiership title, surpassing Mamelodi Sundowns, ahead of the highly anticipated Soweto Derby. Picture: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
Never mind Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto Derby this weekend, Orlando Pirates will go on to win the Betway Premiership title this season. This is according to former Pirates player Benedict Vilakazi ahead of one of the headline fixtures on the local football calendar on Saturday at FNB Stadium.
Though form generally counts little when it comes to Soweto Derbies, Pirates will still be the heavy favourites for the encounter.
Pirates made it all the way to the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League, and are still in the hunt for the league this season as they look to stop Mamelodi Sundowns winning their eighth title in a row.
Chiefs, meanwhile, are in ninth spot with five games remaining and face the prospect of missing out on the lucrative top eight for a second season in a row.
Pirates Poised for League Victory as Sundowns Show Signs of Weakness
Despite the obvious importance and bragging rights that go with the Soweto Derby, Pirates will have far bigger aspirations, said Vilakazi.
"Pirates have what it takes to win this league. It's still open for them. They've gained massive experience in the Champions League and I see them winning all their remaining games,'' Vilakazi told Sowetan on Tuesday.
"On the other hand, I fear Sundowns will slip up...I mean, they don't look dangerous these days. Even against Al Ahly [in the Champions League semifinals second leg in Cairo last Friday] they had to rely on an own goal to reach the final. So, I really think they will drop points and Pirates will catch them.