Pirates looking forward to Nedbank Cup clash against Chiefs

Orlando Pirates striker Kermit Erasmus believes the club’s ability to create chances will help them overcome Kaizer Chiefs when the sides meet in a Nedbank Cup semi-final clash at the FNB Stadium on Saturday.

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Pirates and Chiefs meet in the fight for a spot in the final of the Ke Yona Cup, and Erasmus is confident that the Sea Robbers will beat Amakhosi and reach the final of the tournament.

The Buccaneers head into this match against Chiefs, having scored 18 goals in their last nine games. And Erasmus says it will be vital for him and his teammates to be composed in front of goals at the weekend.

“In the past few games, we have shown that we are a team that can create goal-scoring chances. Sometimes we can’t convert the chances that we have created. But it has proven that we create a lot of chances in games and it will not be different on the weekend, even though it’s a derby,” said the striker.

“So, we are looking forward to the game and we are hoping that we can create as many chances as possible and just be a bit composed in front of the goals so that we can convert them.”

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Erasmus, who has played in many Soweto derbies in the past, knows the pressure of coming up against Amakhosi.

The striker’s advice to some of the players who might get a start against Chiefs is to make sure that they play according to the coach’s plan.

“You just have to focus on the plan that is being prepared and execute it to the best of your abilities. If you stick to that and implement your creativity as a player (you will be able to accept the pressure of playing in the derby). And also be free and not be afraid of the occasion,” said the former Mamelodi Sundowns striker.

“For me, it’s about making sure that the players understand that and execute the plan.”

Pirates will head into this game after playing to a 1-1 draw with Royal AM in a DStv Premiership clash, while Amakhosi lost 2-1 to Swallows FC in their previous tie.