Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has acknowledged the close competition between his side and Kaizer Chiefs ahead of the Soweto Derby, highlighting near parity in both teams' defensive and attacking capabilities.
The two Soweto giants will clash this Saturday, February 1st, at the iconic FNB Stadium. Pirates, in pursuit of the Betway Premiership title, seek a victory to narrow the gap on log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.
Meanwhile, Chiefs, riding a wave of momentum after defeating Sekhukhune United, will also be aiming for all three points.
At the Pirates press conference, Ncikazi emphasized that while Chiefs have conceded more goals (16) than Pirates (5), the overall quality between the two teams is remarkably similar.
He cautioned against overemphasizing league positions and past statistics, stressing that the Derby's outcome hinges entirely on the day's performance.
Despite Pirates' six-point lead in the league, Ncikazi underscored the narrow margins separating the sides beyond these factors.
He expressed confidence in his team's meticulous preparations and their unwavering determination to secure a victory in this highly anticipated encounter.
‘WE ARE ALMOST EQUAL’
“The margins between the two teams are very narrow, defensively we're almost similar, chance creation we are similar, but the only difference is on goals conceded,” said Ncikazi.
“They have conceded more but every other stat is equal if I were to use stat. So, one the margins between the two teams are not as big except for log positions and the goals conceded.
“So, we'll try and focus on what we think we're doing better than them where we have conceded less but again you must remember it's a derby. Form, records don't work. It’s what happens on the day and we'll try to focus on our performances so that we can get a result.”
