Orlando Pirates vs SuperSport United | Tuesday 22 October | Orlando Stadium | Kick-off 19:30
Redemption will be on the cards for both teams following a painful exit in the opening round of the Carling Knockout Cup. Pirates suffered a shocking 3-2 loss against newly promoted Magesi FC while SuperSport United was thrashed by Kaizer Chiefs 4-0.
These two sides are no strangers to each other having clashed in the opening round of the recently concluded MTN8 showdown which Pirates went all the way and made history by winning the Cup for the third time in succession.
To Win Match
Orlando Pirates 13/20
Draw 2/1
Chippa United 46/10
Orlando Pirates
Pirates are looking to recover from their painful 3-2 loss to Magesi FC in the first round of the Carling Knockout Cup. They were in control of the match but couldn’t take advantage of their opportunities. The Limpopo team was leading 3-0 at halftime. However, Evidence Makgopa, Patrick Maswanganyi, and Mohawu Nkota were brought in during the second half and were able to turn the game around.
“Nkota, Rele (Mofokeng), Mabasa, everybody had different types of chances today (Saturday). But it was not our day in front of goal. We could not even solve the problem that we created ourselves in the first half because we created more than enough,” said Jose Riveiro after the match.
The Soweto Giants are currently missing several key players due to injuries. The list includes Olisa Ndah, who suffered a tibia fracture in a match against Polokwane City, as well as Thalente Mbatha, Bandile Shandu, Tapelo Xoki, Goodman Mosele, Zakhele Lepasa, Thabiso Lebitso, Sandile Mthethwa, and Ethan Visagie.
The Buccaneers are currently enjoying a successful run in the league, having won all three of their opening matches. They are one of only two clubs to have secured maximum points in their opening three matches.
SuperSport United
SuperSport will have a chance at redemption after being defeated by Pirates in the MTN8 quarterfinals. United lost 3-1 in extra time, with goals from Olisa Ndah, Monnapule Saleng, and Evidence Makgopa.
They have had a difficult start to their campaign, currently sitting 13th in the league with four points. They have won one game, drawn one, and lost twice in their four matches. Gavin Hunt strengthened his squad by roping in former Cape Town City attacker Tashreeq Morris who will also fill in for long-time servant Bradley Grobler who suffered an injury that will sideline him until late December or early next year.
Players to watch:
Relebohile Mofokeng, the youngster, has proven to be a valuable asset for Pirates. He came in and changed the game in the MTN8 final against Stellenbosch FC, providing an assist and also scoring a goal.
Kabelo Dlamini is becoming a savior for Pirates. He came in as a second-half substitute and scored a free kick against Richards Bay, allowing the Bucs to secure maximum points.
The former Pirates winger Vincent Pule scored for United in their previous encounter with his ex-club. Hunt is relying on him to penetrate the home side’s defense.
How to watch?
To all football fans in the Gauteng province: you can buy tickets to attend the live game at Orlando Stadium in Soweto. The match will also be broadcast live on SuperSport TV (Channel 202) starting at 19:30.
Orlando Stadium:
The Sea Robbers will be looking to avoid another defeat at their home ground. They have been dominant when playing at Orlando, winning five out of the last six home games.
Prediction: Pirates to win at 13/20
This match will be highly contested as both teams will be fighting to avoid a second consecutive defeat. United will put up a good fight, but they will be outmatched when comparing the quality of the squads on both sides.
Written by Siphesihle Soni