Cape Town City is set to continue their MTN 8 semi-final journey this evening when they host Orlando Pirates at DHL Stadium with kick-off set for 18:00. The Citizens will be aiming to seal the deal in the first leg to avoid going to Orlando Stadium for the return leg on a backfoot.
High-flying Orlando Pirates, on the other hand, started the season on a high note scoring seven goals in three matches. They look determined to lift the trophy for the third consecutive season.
Cape Town City 51/20
Draw 21/10
Orlando Pirates 11/10
Cape Town City
City was not much of a threat in their cup-opening tie against Sekhukhune United. They managed to take nine shorts at goals with only two being on target. Darwin Gonzalez failed to give his side an advantage early in the match when they received a penalty in the 41st minute which he missed.
The match looked to be heading to an additional extra-time with either side being unable to score until the Western Cape side received another penalty in the 88th minute which Gonzalez converted into a goal to book a spot for City to the semi-finals.
The Citizens were one of the busiest teams during this transfer window bolstering their squad with a number of notable signings including Angolan sensation Carlinhos, Kamohelo Mokotjo from Sekhukhune United, former Chippa United player Kayden Francis, Haashim Domingo from Raja Casablanca and former Orlando Pirates midfielder Fortune Makaringe.
They suffered a major blow when Carlinhos picked up a knee injury that may see him missing out the first half of the season. This comes at a time when Eric Tinkler needs all his players as he is facing a strong side that is proving to be gunning for all trophies this season.
Goalkeeper Darren Keet stated that they are determined to secure an advantage in this match and admitted the toughness of their opponents adding that it is never easy to play them.
“Our main objective is to score a couple of goals and ensure we keep a clean sheet before heading to Orlando for the second leg. Playing at home gives us an opportunity to build a strong foundation. It’s always a tough task against Pirates, but we are prepared. Our defence is stable, and our team is well-rounded,” said Keet.
Coach Eric Tinkler stressed the importance of striving to keep a clean sheet at home in a bid to gain an advantage heading to the second leg which will be at home for the Sea Robbers.
“Pirates, playing at home or away, is always a home game (for them), they get massive support, but on a personal note, I’ve always felt that the fuller the stadium – whether your supporters or the opposition’s, it makes you raise your game another level,” Tinkler said.
“So, I don’t think that plays an effect (on the game), I think the fact that still in this competition away goals count. So, it’s very important to keep that clean sheet, especially when playing at home.
“They’ve got so many qualities, they have a massive squad to choose from, their (pre-season) preparations have been exceptional, obviously being able to go to Spain and play against the type of opposition that they’ve played against.
“But we saw them drawing away to a team from Madagascar, so they do have frailties, and we’ve got to go out there with full belief in ourselves, knowing where their strengths lie – they are a very good team on transition, they like to build up and play through the phases.” He concluded.
Orlando Pirates
The Soweto giants showed class when they outmatched SuperSport United in the quarterfinals 3-1. The Pretoria-based team put on a good fight and managed to hold them to a 1-1 draw in the final whistle.
The introduction of Karim Kimvuidi and Evidence Makgopa paid dividends for Jose Riverio as Makgopa scored a goal that ended the hopes of United equalizing after Monnapule Saleng had netted in the 93rd minute.
Pirates are heading to this match with momentum on their side following their 4-0 thrashing of Madagascar side Disciples FC 4-0 to move into the next round of the CAF Champions League where they are set to face Botswana side Jwaneng Galaxy. However, City are a much more formidable team and should give them a run for their money.
Riveiro will be delighted with the return of Miguel Timm and Thabiso Monyane who were sidelined due to injuries. Newly-signed Angolan midfielder Gilberto has received his work permit and is expected to make his debut in this match. Deano van Rooyen who was recently signed from Stellenbosch FC will not be part of this match as he played for Stellies in their quarterfinal clash against TS Galaxy.
The last meeting between these two teams ended in a 2-0 win for the Buccaneers with Tshegofatso Mabasa netting a brace to hand his side all three points. We look to see if he can score again for his side in this match. The last season’s Golden Boot winner is yet to score this season.
Written by Siphesihle Soni