Pirates Put Pyramids Loss Behind Them
Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has affirmed that the team has put their disappointing CAF Champions League semifinal exit against Pyramids FC behind them.
The former Golden Arrows and Maritzburg United coach added that they are now fully focused on their upcoming Betway Premiership fixture against Sekhukhune United at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday [19:30].
Pirates were knocked out of the CAF Champions League semifinals with a 3-2 aggregate loss to Pyramids FC at the 30 June Stadium last Friday.
The Soweto Giants currently occupy the second spot in the Betway Premiership standings with 46 points from 22 matches. They trail league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who have 55 points.
Despite the Champions League setback, the Sea Robbers have already secured the MTN8 title this season and have also reached the final of the Nedbank Cup, where they are set to face their Soweto rivals, Kaizer Chiefs, at Moses Mabhida Stadium on May 10th.
Ncikazi emphasized that their attention has completely shifted to the Sekhukhune United clash and reiterated their determination to secure all three points in that encounter.
“Another important final against a highly competitive Sekhukhune,” Ncikazi stated.
“Fortunately, I think everybody in the team is aware of the importance of the match. I could see that the players are all ready.
“The past game has passed us, we are looking to the next match against Sekhukhune, and three points will be the only language we will understand,” he added.
In the reverse league fixture played in February, Pirates defeated Sekhukhune United, who currently sit third in the Betway Premiership table, with a 2-1 victory at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium.
