A former Orlando Pirates striker has made a bold prediction as the gigantic clash looms against perennial rivals Kaizer Chiefs this weekend.
Many may see the match as a chance for revenge for the Buccaneers after losing 1-0 to Amakhosi in the first round match in October, while some believe that a win for Arthur Zwane's side would take off the pressure from the mentor.
Read: Shock Soweto Derby Prediction! Chiefs V Pirates In Legend's Eye…
Of the players expected to rise to the occasion and possibly create match-winning moments for their respective teams, is Monnapule Saleng who has been in scintillating form for Amabhakaniya.
During the previous meeting for the two sides in the Carling Black Label Cup in November, Saleng was such a threat for Amakhosi and gave their defenders some work to do.
Although he will be operating from the stands at FNB Stadium on Saturday due to suspension, Pirates' coach Jose Riveiro will be looking at the 24-year-old winger to create magic with his eye for goal and pass to add to his nine strikes and four assists in all competitions so far this season and former Bucs striker James Mothibi agrees.
"Saleng is one of the players that are giving Pirates a lot of oomph. The boy is giving the team a lot of options going forward and in terms of pressing high. But, and talking from the point of being an ex-professional player, I don't want us to put Saleng under a lot of pressure. By expecting him to carry all the hopes and souls of Orlando Pirates supporters and the club on his own," he said.
"The boy is still young and let's not put too much pressure on him but he will perform tomorrow. That's definitely a surety, he will perform tomorrow. Being from Bloemhof, he comes from not too far away from where I come from in Warrenton and I am giving him 100% support. The boy will even score tomorrow or assist," said Mothibi.
Read: Insider Hints On Unlikely Pirates Return For Midfield Ace
"The game will be tough and tactical. No one is going to sit back, that's what I know, because Arthur doesn't like to sit back and so is our coach (Jose Riveiro). It's going to be attack after attack. To Pirates' players, and all of them, I would like to wish him good luck as they are carrying the hopes the club's supports, those who are alive and those who have since passed on. I'm sure the chairman, Dr Irvin Khoza, still sits with the players from time to time like he used to do with us and educate them about the history of the club since its formation in 1937 and that should play a part in the preparation for the game tomorrow," he concluded.
You must be Sign In to read and post comments.
