Royal AM midfielder Kabelo Mahlasela is setting his sights on causing an upset when they host Soweto giants Orlando Pirates at Harry Gwala Stadium on Sunday (15:00).

While Royal AM sits in 13th place, Pirates are locked in a tight battle for second position. Mahlasela anticipates a thrilling encounter due to the contrasting ambitions of both teams.

“Looking at the log positions, Pirates want to maintain their second spot and we want to fight out way up so it’s going to be one hell of a good game,” declared Mahlasela.  

The former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder also predicts a high-scoring match in Pietermaritzburg.

“Given our contrasting objectives,” Mahlasela explained, “the game should see a lot of goals. Pirates want to maintain their position at the top, and we want to move up. So, I expect goals on Sunday.”

The 33-year-old winger hopes their new home ground, Harry Gwala Stadium, will bring them some luck as they host Pirates for the first time this season.

“We’ve never played Orlando Pirates at Harry Gwala before,” said Mahlasela, whose side have won five games at home this season. 

“It’s our first season using this stadium so hopefully I believe that on Sunday we’ll get great results against Pirates.”  

Royal AM has struggled against Pirates in recent meetings, failing to win any of their last five encounters in all competitions. Their previous meeting this season ended in a high-scoring 4-2 defeat for Royal AM.

For Mahlasela, a victory on Sunday would hold significant meaning for Thwihli Thwahla, given their historical struggles against the Buccaneers.

“If you were to check the head-to-head against Pirates, we played five, they won three times, we drew twice, so it will be a good feeling for us to open our winning doors against Pirates at Harry Gwala Stadium,” he said.  

Picture courtesy of Royal AM