Pirates Set Sights on Premiership Title Following Win Against City

The Orlando Pirates have a chance to ascend to the pinnacle of the Betway Premiership by defeating Cape Town City at DHL Stadium on Wednesday (19:30).

The Pirates currently sit at 27 points, trailing the leaders Mamelodi Sundowns (30) by just three points, although Sundowns have played one more game. Both teams have comparable records, with Pirates scoring 22 goals and conceding a mere four.

Assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has lauded Cape Town City’s new manager, Muhsin Ertugral, describing him as an experienced tactician who will inject new vitality into the team for Wednesday’s match.

City is now under the leadership of former Pirates coach Ertugral, who succeeded Eric Tinkler earlier this year.

Ertugral started his tenure on a high note, guiding City to a victory over Kaizer Chiefs—another of his previous clubs—at DHL Stadium on Sunday.

In contrast, City faces a Pirates squad that is in excellent form, having recently triumphed over Stade d’Abidjan with a 3-0 victory in their CAF Champions League group stage match this past weekend.

The Pirates are bolstered by their earlier 2-0 victory against City in the MTN8 second-leg semifinal at Orlando Stadium this season. The first leg, held at DHL Stadium, resulted in a 1-1 draw, setting the stage for an electrifying atmosphere in Cape Town for Wednesday’s encounter.

Despite their recent string of wins, Ncikazi acknowledges that City under Ertugral will pose a significant challenge.

“This is another opportunity for the team to earn points,” Ncikazi stated.

“It won’t be a straightforward match, as they have a very experienced coach, new strategies, and revitalized energy on their side.

“They will be highly motivated following their last result. However, the positive takeaway for our team is our commitment to the upcoming match and our ambition to enhance our performance.

“We aim to deliver our best and secure three points against Cape Town City.”

The Pirates will be without their key player, Makhehleni Makhaula, who is suspended for this match due to a buildup of yellow cards.