Baroka FC defender Boginkosi Makume is optimistic of beating Orlando Pirates on Saturday in the Nedbank Cup Round of 16.
The second-tier outfit was paired with the defending champions after getting past Umvoti in the previous phase. The Buccaneers, who are coming into the fixture as clear favourites, beat fellow Premier Soccer League side Richards Bay to advance.
Prior to this weekend's match, Bakgakga have not won their last two games in the league, falling heavily 5-1 to Venda FC before playing to a 1-1 draw with the University of Pretoria's AmaTuks. The Buccaneers are coming into the match fresh from the 4-1 loss against the defending Premier Soccer League champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
However, Makume is convinced the young players on his team are determined to cause an upset against the Soweto giants.
‘A lot of youngsters want the spotlight' – Makume
“It will be very nice [to knock them out] honestly,” the experienced defender said ahead of the game to be played at the Orlando Stadium.
“It will be very nice because there are plenty of youngsters here who are looking to have that spotlight and have that opportunity to be seen. So, I pray and hope that they come to the party on the day and eventually we knock them out.”
The 29-year-old further opened up on the prospect of playing against his former teammate Evidence Makgopa.
“I think he has grown as a footballer and his growth has happened immensely because he’s also played in the [2023 Africa Cup of Nations].
“So, his experience is going to come in handy for him. And playing against him I think I’m going to face a different Makgopa because I think he’s a different player than when he was here. He’s grown,” he concluded.
The game between Baroka and Pirates will be played from 15.00 SAT.
