Orlando Pirates’ dominance sparks fear ahead of Soweto derby
The form of the all-conquering Orlando Pirates has struck fear in the hearts of the Kaizer Chiefs faithful ahead of Saturday's Soweto Derby. Fresh from their recent conquests in the CAF Champions League, where they upstaged Africa's 'Club of the Century', Al Ahly, Pirates returned to local action to warm up for the derby with a league outing against Richards Bay over the weekend.
After Pirates’ impressive 3-1 win over Richards Bay, fan favourite Relebohile Mofokeng, who won the Player of the Match award, warned the team's future opponents: “We want it all.
“We want the league and the cups. It will be difficult for other teams to beat us because we’re used to winning.”
The struggles of Mamelodi Sundowns, coupled with the contrasting cup performances of Chiefs and Pirates, are among the key takeaways from the weekend's local football action.
Downs survive scare after third-division rookies score twice in six minutes
Mamelodi Sundowns made several changes to their starting line-up for Sunday's Nedbank Cup match against Sibanye Golden Stars FC, a third-division team. Coach Miguel Cardoso adjusted for squad rotation.
After dominating the first half with a 3-0 lead, Sundowns allowed Stars to score twice in six minutes, leading to an unhappy Cardoso, who voiced his frustration for the lapse in focus and respect for the opposition.
Amakhosi celebrate clean sheet against Free Agents
Kaizer Chiefs emerged as 4-0 victors over Free Agents FC. They rested several key players to mitigate potential suspensions ahead of the Derby.
Assistant coach Khalil Ben Youssef, stepping in for the suspended Nasreddine Nabi, celebrated the clean sheet, saying: “Congratulations to my players for the performance.
“This is the second time (in a row) we have a clean sheet. The team is making progress.”
However, the fans’ reception was lukewarm, with dissatisfaction expressed over the team's overall performance.
Sea Robbers' Riveiro blessed with superb man management skills
José Riveiro, the Spanish mentor of Orlando Pirates, is earning praise as one of the best foreign-born coaches in South Africa. Following Pirates' victory over Richards Bay, Riveiro praised Tapelo Xoki, who returned from a long injury lay-off, highlighting his qualities as a leader and integral part of the team.
Middendorp-led Cape Town Spurs extend unbeaten streak
Cape Town Spurs, under coach Ernst Middendorp, have begun to find their rhythm. They secured a 3-1 victory against Venda Football Club, extending their unbeaten streak to three matches across all competitions. Spurs will learn of their Round 16 opponents in the Nedbank Cup when the draw is conducted on Wednesday evening.
Fans say Mofokeng is shaping up as Chiefs' Soweto derby embarrassment
The form of Pirates starlet Relebohile Mofokeng and teammate Patrick Maswanganyi has instilled fear among Chiefs supporters. Maswanganyi scored two goals in the recent victory over Richards Bay, while Mofokeng provided two assists.
Following the match, a Chiefs fan expressed concern on social media, stating: “I am scared these guys will embarrass us in the derby, Chiefs can't match them.”
Fans hope Mofokeng will keep his showboating in check when playing on their turf.