Can Kaizer Chiefs stand in the way of Orlando Pirates’ treble-hunting season?
DERBY FEVER Can Kaizer Chiefs derail Orlando Pirates' treble hopes in the high-stakes Soweto Derby and upcoming Nedbank Cup final? Picture: AFP
Image: AFP
It may be a question that Sekhukhune United already answered, but Kaizer Chiefs could still have a big say in the quest of Orlando Pirates to bag an elusive treble this season.
Pirates have been strong challengers to Mamelodi Sundowns, who are seeking their eighth league title in a row this season, but on Wednesday the Soweto Giants fell to a 1-0 defeat to Sekhukhune.
While Sundowns eased to a 3-0 win over Richards Bay at the same time, it meant that Pirates are now 12 points behind the table-toppers.
Even though Pirates still have two games in hand over Sundowns, who have played 23 matches, it means the gap is once again ballooning.
Pirates Eye Cup Double Amid Soweto Derby Showdown with Chiefs
That’s even before Pirates enter the cauldron of the Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium against Chiefs on Saturday, when the pressure will now be even greater for the Buccaneers to bag all three points.
However, since Pirates already have a cup title to their name this season when they won the MTN8 in October, they still have a chance at winning three trophies.
Though it may be a little more difficult to see Pirates winning the league, they will face Chiefs again on May 10 in the final of the Nedbank Cup at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
With this game in mind, it may not be beyond the realm of possibility that Pirates lose or draw their league clash against Chiefs this weekend as their title aspirations have already taken a big hit.
It means a cup double could become the big aim, and it could just mean the Soweto Derby league encounter could become more of a tactical affair.
It would then free up Pirates coach José Riveiro to keep his cards close to his chest as his side go all out in the Nedbank Cup to bag what will probably be the last trophy on offer.