Mngqithi Rates Pirates, But He Knows Where They Struggle
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi believes that Orlando Pirates will be in the race to win the league this season, provided that they get one thing right which is to win against small teams.
Sundowns is in position number one while the Buccaneers are in second place, having both won all four matches. However, these two rivals are separated by the goal difference.
The Brazilians defeated Royal AM 2-1 this week in the Betway Premiership, while Pirates defeated Sundowns’ neighbours SuperSport United 2-0 on Tuesday evening. Before they played their games this week, Sundowns and Pirates were involved in the Carling Knockout last 16 over the weekend.
Fortunately, Sundowns managed to win their game 5-0 against Golden Arrows FC at Lucas Moripe Stadium. On the other side, Pirates were eliminated by Magesi 3-2 in their game. Both Sundowns and Pirates are through to the CAF Champions League group stages, and it is when Mngqithi said they will have an edge over Pirates in the title race.
Following Sundowns’ victory against Royal AM on Tuesday, Mngqithi revealed that even though Pirates can give them a tough time in the league the Brazilians will win the race as the Soweto Giants tend to struggle against small teams.
“I think I said it from the beginning that they [Pirates] are a team I think that is going to push us,” Mngqithi said.
“I do hope and pray they have the depth to carry themselves during the group stages [of the CAF Champions League] and the league because I think maybe that’s where the separation will take place.
“I do believe they are a very good team, and they tried to rotate the squad. Unfortunately, it did not work out very well in the Carling [Knockout Cup] but honestly speaking I think they are a team that will pose a lot of problems.
“But I still maintain that they are a team that does not do well against ‘small teams’ and so far, they’ve done well, but let’s continue and see because that’s where I think maybe the championship will be decided.”
Pirates will be visited by AmaZulu in the Betway Premiership at Orlando Stadium on Friday night. If they can win or play a draw, the Buccaneers will reclaim the top spot. The Brazilians will visit Polokwane City FC on Sunday at Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane.