Pirates beat TS Galaxy to claim second spot.

Orlando Pirates strengthened their Caf Champions League spot hopes when they defeated TS Galaxy 2-1 on Sunday afternoon at Mbombela Stadium.

Goals from Terrence Dzvukamanja 2' and Deon Hotto 59', were enough to see Pirates brush aside TS Galaxy to stretch their winning streak to six games in the Dstv Premiership.

Pirates enjoyed the better of the early exchanges, after scoring the opening goal within two minutes, looking more comfortable of the two sides, averaging 57% of the ball, and could have gone 2-0 ahead within six minutes after a ball deflected by Given Msimango almost ended up at the back of the net.

But Galaxy were not lying down and playing dead either, with Orebotse Mongae and Kamogelo Sebelebele threatening on quick offensive transitions.

Given Msimango headed Galaxy level on the 39th minute with a glancing header from the near post, before Hotto put Pirates back ahead nine minutes after half-time.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/its-like-being-fed-honey-on-knife.html?m=1

While Pirates enjoyed most of the ball, TS Galaxy once again relied on their good defensive organization to keep the score line respectable, limiting Pirates to 11 goal attempts, much lower than Amabhakaniya's standards, although they still managed to put five shots on target.

With offensive play not their strength, Galaxy still managed seven goal attempts and four shots on target.

With this win and only three matches to go, Pirates are now hot favorites to join Mamelodi Sundowns in the Caf Champions League next season.

Pirates next play Royal AM on Wednesday 03 May at Orlando Stadium, kick-off is at 15:00.

It’s like being fed honey on a knife - Mokwena on Kouki's compliments.

CR Belouizdad coach, Nabil Kouki, showered Mamelodi Sundowns with praises after the latter knocked his side out of the Caf Champions League 6-2 on aggregate.

Kouki went as far as saying Sundowns are the best team in Africa at the moment, but Sundowns coach, Rulani Mokwena, says Kouki's compliments are like more like being fed honey on a knife.

The Sundowns tactician pointed to the Stellenbosch loss in the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals, saying his side were the worst team in the match.

"We receive the compliments with a lot of humility and appreciation, coming from a very experienced coach on the continent, but you know like I always say with the pleasantries, it’s like being fed honey on a knife," Mokwena told iDiski Times https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/caf-champions-league/rulani-responds-to-koukis-praise-after-thumping-belouizdad

"I don’t have to go too far back because a couple of weeks ago, we lost to Stellies and we were the worst team, I was the worst coach and so… this is football.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/amazulu-coach-defends-his-players-over.html?m=1

"In football, you have to take the good moments, just like you take the bad moments, not too high in the good moments, not too low in the bad moments."

Sundowns will travel to KwaZulu Natal, Durban on Wednesday 03 May to take on AmaZulu FC.

The game will be played at Princess Magogo Stadium, with the kick-off at 19:30.

Amazulu coach defends his players over alcohol abuse allegations.

Allegations recently surfaced of a strong drinking culture at Dstv Premiership side, Amazulu FC. But their coach, Ayanda Dlamini says those allegations come from bitter individuals.

This is after former Amazulu coach, Brandon Truter confirmed as reported by SABC Sport, that indeed, players used to come to training drunk at Usuthu.

"People who are saying these things are bitter," said Dlamini as quoted by SABC Sport. https://www.sabcsport.com/soccer/news/brandon-truter-lifts-lid-on-drinking-culture-allegations-at-amazulu

"Do you think these players would have played like this[winning against Sekhukhune] if they were drinking during the week or the night before? I am the coach right now, and if these things are being said I have to protect my players because I need them – they can’t speak for themselves." 

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/fortunately-we-didnt-bleed-lot-around.html?m=1

"The things being said can destroy their careers. Some people might say they will never hire players from AmaZulu ever again. There are still youngsters here who could still go overseas, and if people are saying this…what does it do to their image? If you have a problem with the team, address it respectfully. If you say they are drunkards, maybe they were getting drunk with you while you were here." 

Player power has also emerged as something big at Amazulu, which is allegedly one of the reasons Romain Folz lost his head coaching position.

Amazulu's next match will be against champions, Mamelodi Sundowns on Wednesday 03 May at Princess Magogo Stadium, kick-off is at 19:30.

Fortunately we didn’t bleed a lot around the box - Mokwena.

Rulani Mokwena watched his Mamelodi Sundowns side come from a goal down to beat CR Belouizdad 2-0 to advance to the Caf Champions League semi-finals 6-2 on aggregate.

Mokwena believes they were fortunate not to have given away a lot of free-kicks around the box, where CRB could have punished them.

CRB opened the scoring from a corner kick that was headed in by Bouchar in the 24th minute, before Themba Zwane 45' and Thapelo Morena 49', salvaged the game for Sundowns.

“The feeling I got in the first half before they scored was that we were closer to scoring than they were. I thought we were in control, " said Mokwena as quoted by iDiski Times. https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/caf-champions-league/rulani-my-biggest-disadvantage-as-coach/

The only disappointment of the first half is that the first five minutes after they scored, I think emotionally we were rattled a little bit

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/they-have-quality-players-and-money-cr.html?m=1

“Fortunately we didn’t bleed a lot around the box because if you bleed a lot around the box against North African sides, they get free-kicks, they get corners and then they go for the second and that could’ve complicated issues.

“But after that we then stabilised ourselves again, we showed very good leadership and the senior players took charge of the game again and [we scored] a very good goal from Mshishi.”

They have quality players and money - CR Belouizdad coach on Sundowns.

Mamelodi Sundowns beat CR Belouizdad at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday afternoon to reach the semi-finals of the Caf Champions League, and CRB coach, Nabil Kouki, can't stop singing their praises.

Money is almost always part of the conversation where Sundowns are concerned, but Kouki believes it is not only money that is pushing Sundowns ahead of the rest, but their ability to identify and sign quality players.

"Mamelodi Sundowns, in my opinion, is the best team in Africa right now. It's a challenge to play this team, their football has everything," Kouki told the media after the game.

"Football always has new things, but nowadays if you talk about football, it's money.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/boutouil-another-victory-for-sundowns.html?m=1

"All the coaches around the world can see Sundowns is ahead of the others. They have quality players and money, yes other teams have money as well to buy players, but the Sundowns technical team has the technique to find and buy quality players. You can see them on the field, how they finish, in my opinion, Sundowns is far ahead of the other teams."

Sundowns will face Moroccan giants, Wydad Casablanca in the semi-finals.

The first leg will be played away in Morocco on the weekend of the 12th-13th of May, with the second leg scheduled for 19-20 May. 

Boutouil, another victory for Sundowns scouting department.

It took the Moroccan defender long enough to make and appearance, but Abdelmounaim Boutouil has taken to the Mamelodi Sundowns way of playing like fish to water.

Boutouil, who has played for Raja Casablanca, FAR Rabat, and SCC Mohammadia amongst other clubs, has impressed for Sundowns ever since he was introduced.

The 25-year-old left-center-back, who can also play comfortably as a defensive midfielder, looks like a player who was tailor-made for the Sundowns game model.

Being left-footed, Boutouil gives Sundowns balance during build-up play from the back, which is one of the key features in their model.

Boutouil is comfortable on the ball, even under opposition pressure. He can play accurate short and longer passes, which gives Sundowns more opportunities to vary their build up play.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/sundowns-through-to-cafcl-semi-finals.html?m=1

A big plus is his height and the ability to defend high balls.

Off the ball, Boutouil has proven himself capable of dealing comfortably with one vs one situations, meaning he can provide safe cover for his left-back during opposition counter-attacks from the left, something he might have to deal with a lot considering how Sundowns prefers to have their full-backs constantly joining offensive play.

In a nutshell, from reading the game, to excellent positioning, and physical presence, Boutouil is another real coup for Sundowns, and the likes of Rushine De Reuck and Mosa Lebusa will have to work extra hard for some game time.

Credit must go to the Sundowns scouting department for continuously bringing quality imports to the Dstv Premiership. 

Sundowns through to the CAFCL semi-finals.

Mamelodi Sundowns put on a business-like performance at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday afternoon to defeat CR Belouizdad 2-1.

Goals from Themba Zwane 45' and Thapelo Morena 49', were enough to see Sundowns progress to the semi-finals for the first time since 2019, where they will face familiar foes in Wydad Casablanca.

While the game did seem beyond Belouizdad's reach, with the Algerian outfit having lost 4-1 at home, a backlash was expected from them at Loftus.

Instead they gave a lukewarm performance, showing too much respect to Sundowns, despite getting on the score sheet first with a well taken header from Bouchar in the 24th minute.

Sundowns, who had nothing much to do at Loftus except to manage the game, did just that.

The Brazilians averaged 70% possession in the match, doing just enough to keep the ball away from the frustrated Algerians.

When opportunities presented themselves, Masandawana did look to threaten Belouizdad's defence, which saw them managing eight goal attempts, with four on target.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/themba-zwane-advised-me-to-stay-focused_29.html?m=1

As for Belouizdad, they didn't do enough to make a game of the quarter-final.

They saw only 30% of the ball, which was disappointing for a team looking to overturn a 4-1 score line.

Added to that was their inability to threaten the Sundowns defence. They only managed two goal attempts, with just a single one on target, which was their goal.

With the business of reaching the Caf Champions League semi-finals done and dusted, Sundowns next match will be against Amazulu FC on Wednesday 03 April at Princess Magogo Stadium. 

Themba [Zwane] advised me to stay focused - Says Siyabonga Mabena.

Themba Zwane is a model professional footballer, a player youngsters can look up to for inspiration, and that is exactly what Siyabonga Mabena is doing.

The Mamelodi Sundowns youngster says he has been looking up to Zwane since his days with the School of Excellence.

Now that Mabena is sharing the same dressing room as his hero, things have become even better, as he is able to get valuable advice from his hero.

"Themba advised me to stay focused and not pay attention to negative things that people may say about me, he said I must only focus on my career," he said as quoted by SABC Sport. https://www.sabcsport.com/soccer/news/sa-u17-starlet-siyabonga-mabena-inspired-by-themba-zwane

"Themba Zwane is a player that I looked up to even when I was still at School of Excellence. Sharing the same changing room with him pushes me to work hard knowing that one day I may achieve what he has already achieved in football."

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/this-has-been-our-disease-zwane-on.html?m=1

Mabena, who is currently with the national U17 side for the Under Afcon, where he hopes to catch the eyes of overseas scouts, is not the only Sundowns youngster who has declared Themba Zwane as their role model.

Red hot forward, Cassius Mailula, who is amongst the best young footballers in South Africa, is also one of Mshishi's biggest admires. 

This has been our disease - Zwane on Chiefs missing chances.

No team in the Dstv Premiership comes close to Mamelodi Sundowns when it comes to creating big goal scoring chances than Kaizer Chiefs.

But the difference is Sundowns converts their chances, while Chiefs are struggling.

That has been one of Chiefs' head coach, Arthur Zwane's headaches.

Going to their next match against Swallows FC, Zwane will be hoping his players bring their scoring boots and find the back of the net several times, something that will give them confidence for another Soweto derby on May 6.

While not scoring as much as they create opportunities, Zwane believes his side will eventually find their scoring touch.

"Look it’s the nature of the game, I don’t think there’s any player that wants to go onto the field and miss chances you know deliberately, they tried their best," Zwane said as quoted by iDiski Times. https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/dstv-premiership/zwane-on-mashiane-recall-wasteful-chiefs/

"On another day, they will get it right and score more than two, three, or four, and it’s coming. the only thing we have to do as a technical team is keep on believing in them and encouraging them to do the right things."

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/sundowns-mokwena-have-earned-cr.html?m=1

Zwane says missing valuable chances has been Chiefs' biggest disease this season, and he is right.

While a team like Sundowns, with an xGF (expected goals for) of 1.89 has managed to turn the big chances they create into goals, not the same can be said for Chiefs, despite an impressive xGF of 1.73.

"You must have seen this has been our disease, the story of our season, missing chances – it could have been a different story on the log, if we take maybe half the chances we created," Zwane added.

"But having said that I can’t falter the players effort, they did everything right it’s just that missing link of being clinical in front of goals."

Sundowns, Mokwena, have earned CR Belouizdad's respect.

Ahead of the Caf Champions League second-leg quarter-final match between Mamelodi Sundowns and CR Belouizdad, the Algerian giants coach has come out in praise of Downs.

Nabil Kouki, who saw his Belouizdad side humiliated 4-1 by Sundowns in their own backyard, believes the quality of the Sundowns squad, and Rulani Mokwena's tactical acumen, have been their recipe for success.

"When talking about coach Rulani, I guess previously he has the opportunity to have good players that have been in the Champions League. I can credit him that he has a good formula to associate players that played for Sundowns before and the new players. They are not playing just good football but they're so pragmatic as they play. They are also scoring a lot of goals," Kouki said as quoted by SABC Sport. https://www.sabcsport.com/soccer/news/cr-belouzidad-coach-sings-rulani-mokwena-mamelodi-sundowns-praises

Kouki credited Sundowns' investment in good players as a master stroke.

He believes having good players who can apply the coach's tactics on the pitch is key, and that is exactly what Downs have at their disposal.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/ngcobos-performance-against-chippa-was.html?m=1

"I would like to add something, Sundowns has invested a lot into bringing in good players. As a tactician, even though I can give a tactic, good players can convert those and Sundowns are doing that. They have invested a lot in the team by bringing very good players," he added.

Sundowns will host CR Belouizdad this afternoon [29 April] at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. Kick-off is at 16:00.

Ngcobo's performance against Chippa was a statement.

When Kaizer Chiefs beat Chippa United 1-0 on Thursday afternoon at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, the Njabulo Ngcobo they signed from Swallows showed up.

Ngcobo was tipped for big things when he joined Amakhosi, he was expected to become the rock in the center of their defence, and eventually move on to do the same for the Bafana Bafana.

But things didn't go according to the script for the 28-year-old Folweni born defender.

His performances for Chiefs have been inconsistent, and sometimes downright poor, which has led to him spending most of his stay at Naturena on the bench.

The former uThongathi FC and Swallows defender, has appeared only 12 times for Chiefs this season.

And this has been a season where Amakhosi needed their best defenders to stand up, with their defence, especially at center-back, in shambles.

Chiefs have been conceding some silly goals, something that has been a huge let down, costing them a better position on the log.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/xoki-back-doubts-over-lorch.html?m=1

To remedy the situation, they have swiftly moved to sign Thatayaone Ditlhokwe from SuperSport United, and Given Msimango from TS Galaxy.

With those signings, Ngcobo was one of the players who was alleged to be on his way out, along side the likes of Eric Mathoho.

But on Thursday, Ngcobo marshalled the Chiefs defence with aplomb, keeping things simple and playing with the confidence we saw him playing with at Swallows.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/playing-swallows-before-derby-worries.html?m=1

His impressive display looked more like a statement, to say, I am good enough and I want to stay and fight for my place at Naturena.

Xoki back, doubts over Lorch.

Orlando Pirates will travel to Mbombela Stadium on Sunday 30 April to take on TS Galaxy, with the imminent return of Thapelo Xoki a huge boost.

Xoki was injured against Dondol Stars in the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals, and the Pirates medical team has reported he is likely to be fit for selection.

Thembinkosi Lorch's situation is still being monitored by the medical team, and he is a doubtful starter for Sunday.

Pirates coach, Jose Riveiro will be happy with the return of his right-backs, Bandile Shandu and Craig Martin. The pair have resumed full training with the team.

While they were out, left-back Paseko Mako did a good job of filling in the right-back position.

But the return of Shandu and Martin, will give Pirates more balance and options at right-back, especially with the Soweto derby looming on the horizon.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/playing-swallows-before-derby-worries.html?m=1

Goalkeeper, Richard Ofori, and Cameroonian forward, Bienvenu Eva Nga have also resumed full training, while Vincent Pule and veteran forward, Ndumiso Mabena could resume full training during the coming few days.

The return to action for many of the Pirates players comes at a crucial time when depth will be key.

Bucs are competing for their second trophy of the season in the Nedbank Cup, as well as in the Dstv Premiership for the Caf Champions League spot.

Playing Swallows before the derby worries Zwane.

Kaizer Chiefs will host Swallows FC on Monday 01 April at Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane, at 15:00.

But it is the Nedbank Cup semi-final derby clash against Orlando Pirates on 6 May that worries coach Arthur Zwane.

While the Swallows game is important for Chiefs in terms of their ambition to finish second on the log, the upcoming derby clash might affect them negatively, splitting their focus.

Zwane believes it is key for himself and his technical team to manage the mental side of their players going into the Swallows game.

“It's key that, as the technical team, we manage the players and, fortunately, some of us played in these games and we know how important it is for us to keep collecting points before the derby,” Zwane said after his side beat Chippa United 1-0 as quoted by Times Live. https://www.timeslive.co.za/sport/soccer/2023-04-28-it-gets-to-our-players-ears-worry-for-chiefs-coach-zwane-before-soweto-derbies-against-swallows-and-pirates/

“Sometimes the derby [against Pirates] can make you forget what's important. What's key is to take one game at a time and focus on this one.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/can-ts-galaxy-end-pirates-winning-streak.html?m=1

“As soon as we've played the game on Monday, we'll start focusing on the Pirates one. It's a bit difficult because people are already talking about the derby, especially after a great performance like this. People are already thinking Pirates, not Swallows.

“It gets to our players' ears and they start thinking about the derby. We have to manage it and we've [when he was a player] been in that situation and I think we have that advantage of helping these players manage the entire squad.”

Can TS Galaxy end Pirates' winning streak?

Orlando Pirates will travel to Mbombela Stadium on Sunday 30 April to face TS Galaxy in a Dstv Premiership encounter to Kick-off at 15:00.

Going to Sunday's match, Pirates are riding on a wave of excellent form, having won five league games in a row to boost their chances of clinching the Caf Champions League spot.

The hosts, TS Galaxy, have not been doing all too well. They have won one, drawn two, and lost two of their last five games, a poor run of form that makes it hard to believe they can stop Pirates.

But Galaxy can be a different side to play against, especially when it comes to breaking down their well organized defensive structure.

The Rockets have conceded just 17 goals so far this season, averaging 0.65 goals conceded per match in the league, which makes them the second best defense in the Dstv Premiership.

But it is their performances in the final third that have been a huge let down.

Galaxy are not a team that creates a lot of big chances. Their xGF (expected goals for) average is a poor 1.06 per match in the league.

It reflects on their 0.81 goals scored per match average.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/the-effort-and-attitude-were-second-to.html?m=1

Having to go up against another stubborn defence in Pirates, doesn't leave much hope for them considering their poor exploits in front of goal.

Pirates average 0.69 goals conceded per match in the league, and they have let in just one goal more than Galaxy.

What gives Bucs even a bigger advantage going to Mbombela, despite their reach vein of form, is their improvement when it comes to finding the back of the net, having scored 11 goals in five league matches.

In a nutshell, all Pirates needs is to be more ruthless in front of goal, making use of an avalanche of chances they create in almost every match, while keeping their impressive defensive structure to dispose of TS Galaxy.

*Stats Source: footystats

The effort and attitude were second to none - Zwane on Chippa win.

Kaizer Chiefs kept their Caf Champions League spot hopes alive with a 1-0 over Chippa United at a packed Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Thursady afternoon.

Chiefs coach, Arthur Zwane, believes it is the way they started the match that was the catalyst for their victory.

It was Ashley Du Preez who fired Amakhosi to victory with a well taken curler in the 72nd minute.

"I think we came into this game knowing we’re coming against a team that is going to make our life difficult as they are fighting for their lives," Zwane said after the game as quoted by iDiski Times. https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/dstv-premiership/zwane-chiefs-not-giving-up-cafcl-hopes/

"It was never going to be an easy game but if there’s one thing we did right today, is how we started the game – we dictated terms, we showed intention, showed we wanted to win the game, we had a few early chances we didn’t take but the effort and attitude were second to none.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/at-sundowns-you-have-to-play-well-and.html?m=1

"At half time we had to encourage them to keep on pushing and give their best and they did exactly that – in the second half we weren’t ruthless, the scoreline wasn’t a reflection of what we saw, it could have been more than 1-0 but yeah, all we needed was three points, we got a clean sheet as well and move on."

Chiefs next match will be against Swallows FC on Monday 01 April at Peter Mokaba Stadium, kick-off is at 15:00.

At Sundowns you have to play well and win - Says Mokwena.

After back-to-back wins against CR Belouizdad, and Richards Bay FC in the Caf Champions League and Dstv Premiership respectively, Mamelodi Sundowns coach, Rulani Mokwena, has shed some light on what his team has been going through lately.

Before they left to face CR Belouizdad in a CAFCL quarter-final in Algeria last weekend, a match they won 4-1, Sundowns had been struggling in the domestic front, with three straight draws in the league, and a Nedbank Cup exit in the hands of Stellenbosch FC.

"We know that at Sundowns you have to play well and win, we know that," Mokwena told Mamelodi Sundowns media.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/sundowns-wont-sacrifice-their-soul-for.html?m=1

"There are times where we have to show that we are Champions, we have to grind results a little bit and roll up our sleeves. It’s not always going to be pretty. It can’t be pretty because it’s not a world of realism and perfectionists. As I’ve said, I am very proud of the efforts of the players."

Mokwena says Sundowns finds themselves in a situation like that of Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, where despite being tired, they still have to grind out results.

"We have to try to win every game, [it is a] difficult time for us because every game now is a game of consequence, everyone is playing for something. Every game is a game of consequence, that means we have to be at our best at every training session and at every match. We have to fight and we have to be able to solve football problems and the dynamics of the problems, even sometimes when we are a little bit tired. It’s not easy, it’s tough and it’s the space Bayern are in, it’s the space Real Madrid are in."

Sundowns host CR Belouizdad on Saturday at Loftus Versfeld Stadium for the CAFCL quarter-final second leg. Kick-off is at 16:00.

Sundowns won't sacrifice their soul for the CAFCL, according to Mokwena.

Rulani Mokwena has reiterated that Mamelodi Sundowns will not sacrifice their game model for Caf Champions League, according to SABC Sport.

Sundowns have stuck to their brand of football throughout the tournament, and they are just a game away from reaching the semi-finals.

Maybe that justifies Mokwena's thinking, why fix what is not broken?

"They're saying to (Roberto) De Zerbi at Brighton, the English Premier League, you can't play this way. They said when (Guardiola) Pep arrived in the EPL, they said you can't win in the English Premier League this way. His biggest challenge will be going to Stoke on a Saturday and the first time he went to Stoke, you know the story," said Mokwena as quoted by SABC Sport. https://www.sabcsport.com/soccer/news/rulani-mokwena-mamelodi-sundowns-won-t-sacrifice-game-model-for-caf-title

When a tactical/technical need arises within the game, the Brazilians have managed to find solutions by using other alternatives without deviating much from their way of playing.

"Football is about not playing what you feel, what you want, it's a way of playing and I've spoken about the game model for so many years. A game model of the team encompasses many things. The players you have, the history that the club has, shoes shine and piano. The team is built over many transfer periods."

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/chiefs-and-pirates-must-not-be-happy.html?m=1

Sundowns host CR Belouizdad on Saturday 29 April at Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria, at 16:00, to finish what they started in Algeria, where they emerged as 4-1 winners in the first leg quarter-final. 

Chiefs and Pirates must not be happy with the second spot - Says Ramovic.

TS Galaxy coach, Sead Ramovic, says Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates are too big as football clubs to be fighting for the second spot.

Mamelodi Sundowns emerged as champions for the sixth time in a row when they won the Dstv Premiership title with seven matches to spare.

According to Ramovic, Chiefs and Pirates have all the resources they need to challenge Sundowns instead of being 20 points behind.

"To be honest, clubs like Orlando, Chiefs…fantastic clubs, good squad, good coaches, financially strong…top supporters, probably the best in Africa," Ramovic said as quoted by SABC Sport. https://www.sabcsport.com/soccer/news/sead-ramovic-slams-tv-pundits-calls-for-educated-analysis

"But they are happy with second spot? No man…this can’t be. That’s not success, they have to fight for the title and not be 20 points behind Sundowns," he added.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/du-preez-hero-as-chiefs-beat-chippa.html?m=1

In light of the two Soweto giants' performances this season, and the points gap between them and Sundowns, Ramovic says the 'expects' who say the two sides had a good season must be joking.

"And the experts want to tell me they’ve had a great season? That’s a joke."

Ramovic's TS Galaxy, will host one of the Soweto giants, Orlando Pirates on Sunday 30 May at Mbombela Stadium, with the kick-off at 15:00.

TS Galaxy are currently 11th on the log with 31 points after 26 matches, while Pirates are third with 46 points in 26 matches.

Du Preez the hero as Chiefs beat Chippa.

Kaizer Chiefs got back to winning ways after beating Chippa United 1-0 at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Thursday afternoon.

It was the rejuvenated Ashley Du Preez who ensured Amakhosi walked away with all the three points with a stunning curler in the 72nd minute.

Chiefs, as it has become the norm, looked a better side from the beginning as they took control of the proceedings.

They enjoyed a lot of the ball, averaging 52% possession, although it did not yield enough goal scoring opportunities.

Chiefs managed 14 goal attempts on the day, slightly below their average, which might have been the result of changes in the starting line up, with Happy Mashiane starting in place of the injured Keagan Dolly, who is usually the protagonist when it comes to creating chances.

From their 14 attempts, Chiefs managed to put four on target, one being that Du Preez stunner.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/hire-qualified-coaches-instead-of.html?m=1

Chippa, who spent most parts of the game under pressure, didn't have much action in front of the Amakhosi goal.

They managed only six goal attempts, with only two on target from their 48% share of the ball.

It wasn't surprising that Chippa failed to threaten Amakhosi's goal, as it has been their Achilles heel this season. They just struggle to create enough quality scoring opportunities.

Chiefs will now turn their attention to Monday 01 May, where they will host Swallows FC at Peter Mokaba Stadium, with the kick-off at 15:00.

As for Chippa, they will be hoping struggling Richards Bay doesn't rediscover their form when the two sides clash on Wednesday 03 May, at King Zwelithini Stadium, Durban. 

Hire qualified coaches instead of 'clueless' pundits - Says Ramovic.

TS Galaxy head coach, Sead Ramovic, is a man who is not afraid to speak his mind. This time around it is TV pundits who have received a sucker punch from the tactician.

Ramovic, probably angered by the utterings of a certain TV pundit, has come out guns blazing, saying the TV expects must get some football education.

Ramovic went on to mention the likes of Roy Keane and Thierry Henry, who are former players, TV pundits, and highly qualified coaches.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/will-sundowns-be-made-in-mokwenas-image.html?m=1

"Roy Keane, Thierry Henry and Jammie Carragher…top players and experts in England. All of them have the Uefa Pro, so it means top class level for a pundit. What about South Africa? They have someone who played maybe four games for Orlando Pirates and then disappeared. No [football] education, and then he talks about our structure that he hasn’t really seen?," Ramovic told SABC Sport. https://www.sabcsport.com/soccer/news/sead-ramovic-slams-tv-pundits-calls-for-educated-analysis

On the point of hiring qualified unemployed coaches as TV pundits, Ramovic might have a point.

Their analysis could make watching the half-time and post match analysis more educational.

"I then ask myself ‘you don’t have a clue about soccer’. When I watch a lot of games, explanations from him about the game and structure…I hear a lot of nonsense. So it means you have to put the level up. He cannot get a job like this, he’s not at the right level. You have fantastic coaches [in the PSL] with knowledge, but don’t have jobs. Why not let them be the experts that everybody can learn something from?"

Will Sundowns be made in Mokwena's image next season?

In modern football, coaches have become more of managers than just trainers and tacticians, something that has been happening in the English Premier League for a long time.

Technical teams are getting bigger, and the demands on coaches have never been bigger.

In that case, it is imperative that a coach surrounds himself with staff members he can trust within his technical team, hence we see top coaches like Pitso Mosimane moving around with their own staff members.

Mamelodi Sundowns coach, Rulani Mokwena, is a proponent of modern trends in football, and if he is to succeed in turning the team into a dominant force in Africa, the work environment needs to be conducive to his ideas.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/the-coach-should-receive-credit-where.html?m=1

This means having a say on who sits next to him on the bench, who should be on his extended technical team, the comings and goings of the playing personnel, and that is only the tip of the iceberg.

Mokwena's agent, Steve Kapeluschik, hinted that would be an ideal situation for his client at Sundowns.

"I believe the modern game calls for a coach who is hands-on. The coach should be given a level of trust to make big decisions, of course, with the club’s approval. A few things have changed recently, but it’s clearly nothing the coach can’t handle,” said Kapeluschik as quoted by SABC Sport. https://www.sabcsport.com/soccer/news/agent-confirms-rulani-mokwena-interest-but-mamelodi-sundowns-talks-continue

Mokwena has already shown that Sundowns might be taking a slightly different direction under his reign.

The Brazilians are playing more cutting edge football, and introducing more youngsters to the team.

There has also been some interesting additions to their technical team.

Which leaves the question, is Sundowns going to be made in Mokwena's image next season?

Are we going to see more technical team members moving elsewhere, as well as a few players to open spaces for recruits who fit Mokwena's vision?

That remains to be seen. 

The coach should receive the credit where it is due - Says Mokwena's agent.

With Mamelodi Sundowns having emphatically wrapped up the Dstv Premiership title a few weeks ago with seven matches to spare, their success has continued to be attributed their financial muscle rather than the brains behind it.

According to some in the South African football community, there is nothing special about Rulani Mokwena's title win, it is something to be expected from Sundowns.

But his agent, Steve Kapeluschik, has come out in defence of his client.

"It’s nonsense that people are saying because this is Sundowns, they ought to be winning the league every season. Look at a club like Chelsea, spending exorbitant amounts of money and not being able to deliver this season," said Kapeluschik as quoted by SABC Sport. https://www.sabcsport.com/soccer/news/agent-confirms-rulani-mokwena-interest-but-mamelodi-sundowns-talks-continue

Kapeluschik believes the manner at which Sundowns went about winning the league title, should be enough to earn more respect for Mokwena.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/my-phone-hasnt-stopped-ringing-says.html?m=1

"I have never seen a title being won in this manner during the Premier Soccer League era, and I have been working in football for a long time. Sundowns are obviously miles ahead of their rivals [but] the coach should receive the credit where it is due."

While there is lot of talk around North African teams interest in Mokwena, the tactician is busy plotting his side's passage into the Caf Champions League semi-finals.

Sundowns will host CR Belouizdad in the second leg of their quarter-final encounter on Saturday 29 April at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria.

Kick-off is at 15:00.

My phone hasn't stopped ringing - says Mokwena's agent.

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach, Rulani Mokwena, is a wanted man.

According to his agent, Steve Kapeluschik, North African teams are eager to Mokwena leading their ambitious teams, especially after Sundowns' impressive exploits in the Caf Champions League.

"My phone hasn’t stopped ringing. I’ve had inquiries from Egypt, Morocco, Tanzania, and even locally," Kapeluschnik told SABC Sport. https://www.sabcsport.com/soccer/news/agent-confirms-rulani-mokwena-interest-but-mamelodi-sundowns-talks-continue

While he has turned into a switch board receptionist, Kapeluschik says Mokwena is committed to continue with his work at Sundowns.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/suddenly-joining-sundowns-no-longer.html?m=1

"It is my job to inform my client, but coach Rulani has made it clear he wants to be at Sundowns. He believes there is something special that he can still go on to achieve at the club – they are just a different level and class. You can see it with the number of trophies," he added.

The North African interest in Mokwena is not surprising.

Forget the fact that he has only lost once since taking over the head coaching reigns at Sundowns.

You can also put aside the fact that he guided Downs to their sixth Dstv premiership title in a row with seven matches to spare, that is nothing compared to what Mokwena is capable of.

Simply put, a coach like Pitso Mosimane has perfected the football of the past, and quickly gliding towards the game of the future.

But Mokwena, like one of his favorite coaches, Pep Guardiola, is more of a coach who comes from the future.

His football intelligence, a result of hard work more than coaching talent, is out of this world.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/chippa-can-be-easy-prey-but-so-is-chiefs.html?m=1

While everyone is raving about the football his Sundowns side is playing, one can bet their last rand that compared to what Mokwena wants them to be, they are not even close.

In a nutshell, Sundowns will have to hasten in tying down their head coach, or risk playing against him in next season's CAFCL. 

Chippa can be easy prey, but so is Chiefs.

Chippa United will host Kaizer Chiefs on Thursday 27 April [Tomorrow] at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Gqeberha, with the match kicking off at 15:00.

With relegation having a tight grip on their neck, Chippa will want nothing less than three points to increase their chances of survival.

On the other hand, Chiefs have not given up on their target, which is the Caf Champions League spot, despite losing to Sekhukhune United in their previous encounter, a loss that saw them falling six points behind second placed SuperSport United.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/from-comparisons-with-saleng-to-verge.html?m=1

In a layman's eyes, Chippa should have no hope of beating Amakhosi.

They have lost three of their last five Dstv premiership games, drawing two.

Their defence has been leaking goals, with nine in five league games, while they can't find the back of the net, having scored just three goals.

To make matters worse, they are not even a side that creates valuable goalscoring opportunities, with an average xGF [expected goals for] of 0.76 per match, while they give away good scoring chances to opponents like Father Christmas, with an xGA [expected goals against] of 1.45 per game.

Their opponents, Chiefs, know how to create chances, with an average xGF of 1.73 per match.

One would think Chippa are in huge trouble, but the thing with Chiefs is that they just can't seem to score goals.

Their chance conversion rate stands at 9%, something that should be frustrating to their head coach, Arthur Zwane.

On top of their poor goalscoring form, Chiefs struggle with consistency.

Having gone on an impressive four match winning run in the league, Chiefs went on to draw 1-1 against Marumo Gallants on the 8th of April, followed by a 1-0 loss to Sekhukhune recently.

Come Thursday, one can not know which Chiefs to expect.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/suddenly-joining-sundowns-no-longer.html?m=1

In a nutshell, a betting man may place their bet on a Chiefs win against Chippa, but not with their savings, because Amakhosi always find a way to disappoint.

A risk taker might go for Chippa, a team motivated by their plight with relegation, this is football, anything is almost possible.

*Stats source: footystats.org

From comparisons with Saleng, to the verge of obscurity.

Kaizer Chiefs winger, Kgaogelo Sekgota started the season like a house on fire, leading to a heated debate amongst South African football fans on who is better between him and Orlando Pirates star, Monnapule Saleng.

Fast-forward towards the end of the season, Saleng is a strong contender for the Dstv premiership player of the season, while Sekgota is nowhere to be seen, literally.

The 25-year-old speedster has appeared 25 times for Chiefs across all competitions this season, mostly cameo roles, contributing a single assist, and no goals to speak of.

His limited game time and unconvincing performances when given a chance, has led to questions about how good Sekgota really is.

But he is adamant that it is not the end of the road for him as he continues to improve his game in training.

"I have been working hard and getting motivation from the technical team. Obviously, everything has its moment. All in good time, so it’s good," he told www.kaizerchiefs.com.

"The team has been doing well. We won a few games in a row, and obviously it’s sad when, as Kaizer Chiefs, you lose a game (against Sekhukhune last weekend) but we still have a lot to play for. We’ve got the Nedbank Cup semi-final. We’ve got some games left to finish the season very well, as far up as possible. The team is working very hard, daily, and we are ready for anything that comes."

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/suddenly-joining-sundowns-no-longer.html?m=1

Kaizer Chiefs will be traveling to Nelson Mandela Stadium, Gqeberha, on Thursday 27 April, to face relegation threatened Chippa United.

While Sekgota believes Chippa won't be easy to play against considering their log position, he is confident his side can get a positive result.

"Chippa have a good team, with good players, but we are also good and we are ready for them and looking forward to the game.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/mark-mayambela-from-dazzling-dribbling.html?m=1

"I think they have a good squad and, thinking of their position in the relegation zone means it’s not going to be easy for us, but as I said, we’ll be ready for them."

Suddenly, joining Sundowns no longer looks like career suicide for Williams.

Ronwen Williams equalled the legendary Moeneeb Josephs record of 17 clean sheets on Tuesday when Mamelodi Sunfowns beat Richards Bay 1-0 at Loftus Versfeld.

Williams has been instrumental in Sundowns' impressive league run this season, conceding only seven goals as the champions lifted the Dstv premiership title with seven games to spare.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/mark-mayambela-from-dazzling-dribbling.html?m=1

This is the same Williams who was said to be on his way out of the Bafana Bafana squad after if he was announced as Sundowns new keeper just before the beginning of the season.

After all, Sundowns Denis Onyango, one of the best goalkeepers Africa has to offer, minding their goal with aplomb.

In short, Williams was on his way straight to the Sundowns bench to join Kennedy Mweene and Riyaard Pieterse in twiddling their thumbs with limited action.

But Williams and the Brazilians technical team had other ideas, it seems.

The national team has since made the Downs goalkeeping position his own, putting on some strong performances both in domestic and continental football, including two crucial penalty saves against Al Ahly SC, and Al Hilal Omdurman respectively.

It is not only Ronwen's exploits in goal that have been impressive this season, but his heavy involvement with Sundowns' traditional build up from the back.

At times, Williams fully takes over the duties of one of the center backs during build up play, fully epitomizing what a modern goalkeeper should be.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/its-his-job-says-mokwena-about-williams.html?m=1

As the season approaches the finish line, Williams will mostly set a new record of clean sheets kept in a season, and well on his way to a Dstv premiership Player of the Season award. 

Mark Mayambela: From a dazzling dribbling wizard to a UEFA licensed coach.

                Image: Twitter

Former Orlando Pirates dribbling wizard, Mark Mayambela, is now a UEFA B licensed coach, with his sights firmly set on obtaining his A license.

A former player getting top football coach education is a good thing, but not big news.

What makes Mayambela's story interesting is because of the player he was.

In his playing days, Mayambela was a firm crowd favorite. He gave  South African football fans what they wanted, which was a little bit more 'sugar and spice' in his game.

But with becoming a crowd favorite, comes the blinding lights of fame that have seen many talented footballers in the country fall by the wayside.

For Mayambela though, the football gods spared him from the curse of being haunted by fame's demons.

He is currently working as a coach with the Cape Town City DDC side, and seems destined for much bigger things.

"I want to build myself as a coach, different from the player that I was," Mayambela told Sowetan Live. https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/sport/soccer/2023-04-25-mayambela-aims-to-leave-a-mark-as-coach/

"Of course, people will always associate me with how I played football or the player that I was, but also I must establish myself as a coach; be humble enough to learn, to seek assistance and be patient. I’m honestly comfortable, happy and proud of myself and what I have achieved so far in coaching."

Mayambela credits his environment and the people within it for his seamless transition into coaching.

"I would say it [the transition] has been smooth so far. I’m in a good environment, surrounded by good people and I’m coaching good players.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/its-his-job-says-mokwena-about-williams.html?m=1

"Of course, the transition is always tricky, but the nice thing is I have created a pathway for myself. I did plan this transition..., hence I’m empowering myself and doing coaching courses because it’s part of my pathway.  

"Coaching in the development is part of my pathway. I could have easily gone to be an assistant coach at a PSL or NFD club, use my playing profile... but I took a different route; I wanted to start from scratch."

By the look of things, only the sky is the limit in the coaching sphere for the 35-year-old former left winger. 

It's his job! - says Mokwena about Williams brilliant performances.

Mamelodi Sundowns beat Richards Bay FC 1-0 in a Dstv premiership match played at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Tuesday afternoon.

Goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams was once again amongst Sundowns top performers in the game, pulling off some match winning saves to keep yet another clean sheet.

Williams has been outstanding for Sundowns this season, not only with keeping clean sheets, but performing the role of the modern goalkeeper with excellence, initiating build ups in possession, and acting as a sweeper off possession.

The national team captain has raised his hand for the player of the season award.

But his coach, Rulani Mokwena, insists that Williams is just doing his job.

"Yeah but it’s his job, that’s why we have a goalkeeper, organisational forms of teams start with the number one of the team sheet and that’s a goalkeeper,"Mokwena said as quoted by iDiski Times. https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/featured/mokwena-there-shouldnt-be-much-talk-over-footballer-of-the-season/

Just like Williams, Tebogo Mokwena has been brilliant for Sundowns in midfield, working hard off possession and instrumental in the team's build up play.

Mokwena believes he also deserves a special mention when it comes to conversations about the player of the season award.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/top-coach-riveiro-is-but-he-would-make.html?m=1

"He’s been magnificent, I’m really not even sure why there are lots of discussions of Footballer of the Season and this – he puts his name up, Tebza has [also] been consistent and outstanding but so was the entire team today with fight and hunger."

Top coach Riveiro is, but he would make an even greater sailor!

 

Football coaches in general, rarely come cool, calm, and collected as Orlando Pirates coach, Jose Riveiro. Seeing the Spaniard losing his mind on the dugout is a rare occurrence.

When he first joined Pirates, he was given the famous ‘plumber’ tag, which was an insult, because the man would have made a terrible plumber, honestly.

A sailor, now that would suit him. Imagine calm Riveiro sailing against raging sea waters in the middle of a terrible storm that threatens to sink his ship and kill thousands aboard. While everyone else is struck by a mixture of fear and panic, running around screaming their lungs out, Riveiro would be the only cool head aboard, telling everyone to calm down because there is actually no danger. I kid you not.

The buccaneers’ ship is not going through a storm, but it has not been smooth sailing either.

Pirates miss a lot of chances. If it wasn’t for that, they are one team who would have pushed Mamelodi Sundowns harder in the race for the league title.

Looking at their stats makes for some impressive reading.

Pirates average a good 0.69 goals conceded per match in the league. They are third, behind Sundowns and TS Galaxy when it comes to the goals conceded column in the Dstv premiership, having let in 18 goals so far.

They create decent goal scoring chances too! With an average expected goals of 1.57 per match. Their average shots taken per game in the league is also impressive, with 11.35, but their conversion rate has been their biggest let down, with 11%.

But the cool, calm, and collected Riveiro is not frustrated. In his world, all is well.  

“Frustration is not the word,” said Riveiro as quoted by Times Live

https://www.timeslive.co.za/sport/soccer/2023-04-25-why-jose-riveiro-is-not-fussed-that-orlando-pirates-are-still-missing-chances/

 “I'm not coming to the games thinking we're going to win 5-0 and if we're not at 5-0 at halftime I get frustrated. I know how difficult it is.

“We played a good game against SuperSport but we only scored one penalty after 70 minutes. We played against Maritzburg [United] and suddenly [Monnapule] Saleng shoots from nowhere and the ball is in the net.

“It's a complicated game and you have to control a lot of things to get a result. But I'm not frustrated because I know how much it takes.

“We have to work a lot to create one chance and to make sure that chance is not going to result in a transition immediately after we have it.

“I think that's one of the keys in this moment for us, probably the main change in the second part of the season. No we have the capacity to play more in the half of the opponent and you do that your probabilities to score increase.”

What Riveiro says makes a lot of sense, which is another great quality of the man; he knows how to talk a good game. And he knows his football.

But his calmness! Now that takes the cake. A great sailor, Jose would become.

 

Riveiro says Pirates is in love with cup games, and of course, winning them.

               Image: Facebook

Orlando Pirates will face their arch-rivals, Kaizer Chiefs in the semi-finals of the Nedbank Cup.

Their head coach, Jose Riveiro admits that his side likes to play cup games.

Pirates won the MTN8 title earlier in the season when they beat AmaZulu 1-0 in Durban, and they will have their sights set on slaying beating chiefs to advance to the finals of the Nedbank Cup, in what would be the sweetest revenge for Bucs after Amakhosi got the better of them twice this season in the Dstv Premiership.

Winning a double would be a major achievement for the Spaniard who has managed to turn things around at Pirates, by getting them to play some beautiful football without compromising their defensive organization.

"We have good memories, bad as well. I think we struggled here with Sekhukhune [United], if I’m not mistaken," said Riveiro as quoted by iDiski Times. https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/nedbank-cup/riveiro-targets-second-cup-final-with-pirates/

"But it’s a good place for us, important, special. We like to play the cups, these knockout games we really do and like you said last time we managed to play a good final, to get a title and that’s the intention in every competition.

"We are representing Orlando Pirates so it goes without saying that it’s a must to fight to be there. And Being there is a different story it depends on a lot of factors but the team is really focused and doing everything in order to make our fans happy.

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/mangethe-samkelo-gave-us-that-edge-zwane.html?m=1

"Now we really have the possibility to see ourselves in another final."

The urgent matter for Pirates though, is the Caf Champions League spot, and they will continue gunning for it when they host Cape Town City on Saturday 22 April at Orlando Stadium.

Kick-off is at 15:00.

Mangethe [Samkelo] gave us that edge - Zwane.

Kaizer Chiefs edged a step closer to their first trophy in eight years when they defeated Royal AM 2-1 in a Nedbank Cup quarter-final match played at Chartsworth Stadium, Durban, on Sunday evening.

A Thabo Matlaba own goal in the 36th minute, and a Yusuf Maart penalty in the 102nd minute of extra-time ensured Chiefs' passage into the semi-finals, where they will meet Orlando Pirates.

21-year-old Midfielder, Samkelo Zwane's contribution in the middle of the park, was one of the main factors that led to Amakhosi's victory, according to head coach, Arthur Zwane.

"We started brightly and controlled the space. Mangethe (Samkelo Zwane) gave us that edge in terms of dictating terms in the middle," said Zwane as quoted by The Citizen. https://www.citizen.co.za/sport/soccer/local-soccer/zwane-explains-how-chiefs-forced-royal-am-errors-in-cup-tie/

"They are a ball playing team and once you give them space they can hurt you at any given time.

"So, we had to first control and also utilise the space that is created when their fullbacks go forward. 

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/fan-views-pirates-knows-very-well-they.html?m=1

"For the better part of the game we managed to do that. We controlled them but obvious lapses in concentration in dead ball situations made us give them hope. 

"But that was a wake up call and we looked like we could get a goal at any given time."

Having disposed of Royal AM, Chiefs will turn their attention to the business of hunting for the Caf Champions league spot in the coming weekend.

They travel to Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday 22 April to face Sekhukhune United at 15:00.

Fan Views: Pirates knows very well they are our wives.

        Image source: Facebook

The Nedbank Cup semi-final draw did the Lord's work, with Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates pitted against each other to serve the nation with another edition of the Soweto Derby.

This one has all the ingredients to make it yummy, with it being a cup encounter, Chiefs searching for their first trophy in eight long years, and Pirates raring to get their revenge after losing twice to Amakhosi this season.

As expected, there has been some interesting reactions on social media from the fans on the draw!

So Orlando Pirates have become Kaizer Chiefs submissive wives lately?

One fan, @Evan Kethabo says do!

"Orlando Pirates know very well they are our Wives we'll chow them till forever....I'm happy with the draw,"

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/its-not-going-to-be-easy-zwane-on.html?m=1

From a wife to a daily bread! Is that what Pirates have become to Chiefs? Like, really?

No wonder @Mthobisi Lindi Duma has thanked the man above for giving them Bucs.

"Thanks God for giving us our daily bread."

While Amakhosi fans are excited to have drawn against Pirates, a Bhakaniya fans thinks they should be worried.

"Great! it is about time Chiefs luck against Pirates come to an end," said Zwakele Mbhamali

But wait! A Chiefs fan is counting on two Pirates players to do the Lord's work for them!

"Ndah to do what he does best and Maela to give us a Penalty, What a smooth road to the final," said Saletlatlana Semoneye Mosime.

And wait for this! Amakhosi won't even need a penalty to beat Pirates!

"We don't need penalty to beat Pirates," said Malie Gangatha

One Pirates fan is truly worried about playing Chiefs! But where is the belief? Come on Bhakaniya!

"Chiefs might eliminate us, no  matter how well organized we are, they just have a way of beating us," said Abel Ab-Flow

Last but not least, the Nedbank Cup will not end well for Chiefs, according to one Pirates fan. Apparently, it will end in tears!

"Mmm this won't end well for Chiefs, it will end in tears.
You can mark my words, Let's go Bhakajuju!!" Rhee Umshokobezie Zuma

It’s not going to be easy - Zwane on the Nedbank Cup semi-final against Pirates.

    Image credit: iDiski Times Twitter. 

Kaizer Chiefs have beaten Orlando Pirates two times this season, and the Nedbank Cup semi-finals draw has pitted the two Soweto giants against each other.

While Amakhosi will be looking for a treble of Soweto Derby wins, Amabhakaniya want their revenge and a second trophy of the season.

Chiefs coach, Arthur Zwane, says his side will have to be on top condition.

"It’s not going to be easy as everyone thinks," said Zwane as quoted by iDiski Times. https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/nedbank-cup/zwane-eyes-another-derby-win-over-pirates-in-nedbank-cup-semis/

"Because cup games are totally different to league matches. But as I said, we will treat every game with respect and unfortunately this one is not like any other games – there is a lot at stake.

"If we want to beat Pirates, we are expected to be on top of them and make sure that we win the game."

ALSO READ: https://safootballtxt.blogspot.com/2023/04/chiefs-to-end-trophy-drought-with.html?m=1

The Soweto Derby has failed to live up to expectations when it comes to the football the two sides dish out on the field.

But Zwane believes that with both Pirates and Chiefs on an upward trajectory lately, the Nedbank Cup semi-final will be a good game to watch.

"I think the excitement comes from knowing that we are playing Pirates and they are also doing well, that will be good for South African football as well, because we are also finding our way up.

"I think it is going to be one game that is very good to watch."

Chiefs to end trophy drought with the Nedbank Cup?

  Image credit: Kaizer Chiefs Twitter. 

Kaizer Chiefs were drawn against Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup semi-finals after beating Royal AM 2-1 at Chartsworth Stadium, Durban, on Sunday evening.

Chiefs have not won a trophy in eight years, and the Nedbank Cup gives them an opportunity to break the curse.

But first, they have to deal with cup double hunting Pirates, who disposed of a spirited Dondol Stars in the quarter-finals on Saturday afternoon.

Pirates are looking for their second trophy this season after wrestling the MTN8 title away from Mamelodi Sundowns.

Concerning being drawn against their arch rivals, Amakhosi will take heart in the fact that they have beaten Amabhakaniya twice this season in the Dstv Premiership.

This means Chiefs will be the more confident of the two sides going into the third serving of the Soweto Derby this season.

Added to Chiefs' motivational factors will be their hunger for silverware.

But Pirates, might come out firing on all cylinders in the semi-finals.

Losing Soweto Derby three times in a row will be a disaster that Jose Riveiro will want to avoid.

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It is a well known fact that a coach who doesn't win South Africa's biggest fixture is not taken seriously by their club's faithful. Bragging rights mean a lot when it comes to Chiefs and Pirates fans, and Amabhakaniya would love nothing more than seeing Riveiro getting one over his counterpart, Arthur Zwane, and actually going all the way to winning South Africa's FA Cup, completing a dream cup double for Pirates in his first season.

In another Nedbank Cup semi-final, Stellenbosch FC will take on Sekhukhune United.

Dates and venues to be confirmed.