Black Leopards v Orlando Pirates- Saturday 28th May – Mombela Stadium (15:00)
Andile Jali - Orlando Pirates
This past weekend was filled with late drama, emotions and celebrations as the South African PSL went down to the wire. Orlando Pirates literally snatched the title from Ajax Cape Town as Isaac Chansa’s late pile driver gave The “Buccaneers” their first title since the 2002/2003 season. They are now in contention for the treble as their attention turns to the Nedbank Cup.
Black Leopards are the surprise package in this cup final as they are currently playing in the NFD First division. They got past giant slayers Baroka FC in a hard fought semi-final and have proved critics wrong. They ended in 2nd position on the table and will now feature in the play-offs and try to secure a spot in the SA PSL. Manager Vladislav Heric has enough experience at his disposal as the team has a handsome amount of ex-PSL players and this could prove vital in the pursuit for cup glory and promotion. The likes of Fisher Kondowe, Mayasisilua Lubanzadio and Robert Ng’ambi who all have a wealth of experience will be key in helping Black Leopards defy the odds and slay another giant of SA football. Vladislav Heric knows that his team are by far the under dogs but has no qualms in having that label. In an exclusive interview, he stated that his squad has been under dogs throughout the tournament and this won’t change the attitude of the players and he will be looking for a full hearted effort from each one of his players.
Orlando Pirates are in cloud nine at the moment as they were crowned PSL champions. The squad is in great spirit as they have added another title to their illustrious history and will be going all out to make a Treble winning campaign this weekend. They already have the MTN 8 to go with the league title and will be hungry to add the Nedbank Cup and make it a clean sweep domestically. Manager Ruud Krol was full of praise for his squad but maintained the job is not done yet and will expect his squad to put the celebrations on hold until this weekend. Captain Lucky Lekgwathi will be expected to rally his troops for one last time and cap off a historic season. Pirates have been on somewhat of a drought in recent years as they haven’t picked up silverware for more than a decade. The likes of Andile Jali, Tlou Segolela, Isaac Chansa and Clifford Ngobeni have all played vital roles in bringing silverware to the club and all hungry for success.
Being a cup encounter surprises will be expected, but Orlando Pirates are in great form and will be eager to cap off a memorable season. Pirates are tipped to go on and lift their third title of their campaign.
