WITH the Soweto Derby on February 28 working in their minds, Orlando Pirates, has to firstly do away with Mamelodi Sundowns.
This evening on Wednesday 18, FNB Stadium, the two PSL title contenders will battle it out to see who will have a say come May.
No, its not a title decider as some pundits have remarked, but could have a say who does.
Bucs’ lead the log with 38 points after 16 games, while Downs’ have 32 points after 15 matches.
Its been a while since mzansi has seen this closely contested battle between two idiolised clubs in South Africa.
“It’s been a while since we’ve been preparing for this game -against Sundowns- let’s say two weeks ago, we already started having the game in our minds, even though we were focused on the Nedbank Cup and the Gallants match,” Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, was quoted, ahead of the game.
“We’ve prepared well, mentally and physically. Of course, we played a few days ago, so now it’s only regeneration for our side, and tomorrow we will go deeper in terms of tactics. But my players are ready; there’s a lot of trust, confidence, and unity.
“We’re ready and impatient to play this game—these kinds of games are special for the players, coaches, and fans,” boasted the lanky coach.
“We’re really looking forward to playing this game, and in the career of a player, it’s important to play these games.
“I consider these games against Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs especially important; it’s a game that everyone remembers at the end of their careers. So yeah, we can’t wait,” he said
Downs’ come to Soweto having won their recent CAF Champions League encounter against former mentor Rhulani Mokwena’s MC Alger over the weekend.
Upbeat, and boasting players who are raring to go at each other, this will be a humdinger of a clash!
The game kick-off from 19:30
Meanwhile, the Stadium Management of SA has issued a warning to fans to purchase legit tickets for the game.
The game will see thousands of fans pack the Calabash; but SMSA warned fans to have on-hand legitimate tickets as machines to verify fake tickets will be in full operation, as precursor to the much awaited Soweto Derby next weekend.
The JMPD also issued out a notice of some of the routes that would be closed from 15:30 this afternoon.
Image provided (Downs or Bucs. Who will come out tops tonight)?
