Mandla Ncikazi downplays Soweto derby pressure ahead of Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs clash

Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi says they will prepare for arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs like any other opponent, as both teams are fighting for the same valuable three points.

Pirates will host Chiefs in the return fixture of the Betway Premiership Soweto derby at FNB Stadium on Sunday afternoon (3pm kick-off).

A lot is at stake heading into the match, with bragging rights and three crucial points that could aid Pirates’ championship aspirations. They currently lead the standings, two points ahead of second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns, who have two games in hand.

Chiefs are also searching for a win as they look to consolidate their top-three ambitions and possibly break into the top two if the gap allows.

Given all that, many believe this Soweto derby could have a significant say in the title race, either boosting or denting Pirates’ hopes.

Speaking during the pre-match press conference at Rand Stadium on Tuesday afternoon, Ncikazi explained their approach ahead of the the biggest sporting fixture in the country.

“One danger that we try to avoid is measuring teams before we play them – the size and name of the team have no consequence on how you perform on the day. It’s the analysis that matters,” Ncikazi said.

“If you look at the matches where we didn’t do well and only drew, you wouldn’t have predicted that beforehand. It was about analysing opponents – identifying their threats and how we can counter them. So whether it’s Stellenbosch or Orbit, it doesn’t matter; it’s the same mentality of trying to get three points.”