Kaizer Chiefs defender Inacio Miguel, who is the club’s top scorer in the Nedbank Cup, has declared his readiness to face Orlando Pirates in the upcoming Nedbank Cup final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday [15:30].

Miguel’s confidence is palpable after overcoming an injury that kept him sidelined for several weeks.

The Amakhosi vice-captain’s absence was notable in Chiefs’ recent matches, including the semifinal against Mamelodi Sundowns and the league match against Pirates, where he was available on the bench but didn’t see action. 

However, Miguel is now 100% fit and expected to start in the final. “I’m more than ready for the final,” Miguel said, who has scored three goals in this competition, including the penalty in the quarter final against Stellenbosch.

“This is a final, and you don’t even need to think twice. I had an injury, but now I’m more than ready for the final.”

Miguel highlighted the significance of beating Sundowns in the semifinal, which gave the team a much-needed confidence boost ahead of the final. 

Despite losing to Sundowns three times this season, Chiefs managed to triumph in their fourth encounter, propelling them to the final. 

“We lost to Sundowns three times this season, but what happened to the semifinal? We showed them that we can do what we have to do,” Miguel said.

However, Miguel emphasized that the focus is now on Pirates, acknowledging that each game requires a different approach. 

“But the focus is on Pirates because we can’t compare Sundowns game with Pirates game. This is a different game, it’s a final, and of course it’s a different team and we have to adapt to their style of play,” he added.

The final promises to be an intense encounter between two Soweto giants, with both teams eager to claim the trophy. 

Chiefs are looking to end their decade-long trophy drought, while Pirates aim to successfully defend their title. With Miguel back in the lineup, Chiefs will be hoping to capitalize on his experience and defensive prowess.