Maela Believes Pirates Has To Win The League

Former Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela has expressed strong confidence that the Soweto giants have what it takes to win the Betway Premiership title this season.

Pirates currently sit second on the log with 22 points from 10 matches, holding two games in hand. They trail leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who have collected 25 points from 12 games.

The Buccaneers have gone 13 years without lifting the league title, although they have enjoyed significant success in domestic cup competitions.

After losing their opening two league matches, Amabhakaniya regrouped impressively, embarking on an eight-match unbeaten run and positioning themselves as genuine challengers to dethrone reigning champions Sundowns.

“I think the way things are going right now, there are a lot of positives,” said Maela.

“We’ve already won a cup this season. We’re gunning for the second one; we’re in the final already. We’re still in contention in the league, we are still in contention for another cup, which is the Nedbank Cup. So I think it’s more than possible this season to go all the way. I think they look really, really strong in the league also, because of the depth they have.

“They have the quality of the squad, I think how they are executing game plans in matches, it gives us confidence that this is our season, that the league is ours. I think everyone wants to be in that position with them for the last few matches. When we play the last few matches, we’re still in contention. I believe with this squad this season it will definitely happen,” Maela added.

Maela further complimented the leadership of the club when it comes to the recruitment process of coaches, noting that they always know what they are doing.

“In Pirates, I’ve always said the recruitment process is top,” Maela stated.

“Our leadership is top-notch. Every time they bring in someone, we always have faith in that someone. Even if the start is not as good as it is supposed to be,  we know why they brought him, and now he is showing everyone his capabilities and quality. Look how well the team is doing, look how well the boys are gelling, and even the style of play you can see.

“So we’ve always known, even when I was still playing, even if they bring in someone who’s not well known at that time, but the recruitment process, the leadership, they know what they are doing. They’ve been doing this thing for the longest time, and we trust them. It’s proven again now with the amazing work the coach is doing.”