Will Pirates continue dominance over Chippa in Cup tie?

Orlando Pirates will be looking to continue their dominance over Chippa United when the sides meet in what is expected to be a thrilling Nedbank Cup semifinal clash at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on Saturday at 3pm.

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Based on head-to-head statistics, Pirates are overwhelming favourites to win this tie. Of the 22 matches played between the sides since 2012, the Buccaneers have won 15, the Chilli Boys four, with the other three having ended in draws.

Ahead of this clash, Chippa co-coach Kwanele Kopo believes the Chilli Boys have what it takes to beat Pirates and advance to the final of the Nedbank Cup.

“We would like to get into the final of the Nedbank Cup, and you have to beat Pirates to do it. So, tactically, can we do it? Yes, I believe so.

“Do we have the players that are capable of going out there and competing against Pirates? Yes, I believe so,” said Kopo.

Pirates captain Innocent Maela, on other side, is pinning his hopes on his team’s camaraderie to see them through to the final.  

“All the players in the team, even those who are not part of matchday squads or travelling with the team, feel at ease at Pirates because of the environment that has been created in the team. That’s why we have so much confidence in the team,” said Maela.

Key players

Goodman Mosele – Chippa United

Mosele, who is on loan at Chippa from Pirates, has been in good form for the Chilli Boys this season and his displays has seen him earning a recall to the Bafana Bafana squad. The midfielder has already scored against Pirates this campaign in a 1-1 draw in the DStv Premiership in August. Mosele will certainly have a point to prove against his mother club.

Orlando Pirates – Tshegofatso Mabasa

Mabasa is in fine goalscoring form coming into this clash against Chippa, having found the back of the net nine times in his last eight appearances for the Buccaneers. The striker is also Pirates’ joint all-time top-scorer against Chippa having netted three times against them in the past, the same number as Mpho Makola. He is also the competition’s joint top scorer this season with three goals.

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Meanwhile, Chippa will be without Baraka Majogoro, Rscoe Pietersen and Azola Ntsabo when the host Pirates on Saturday. The trio is suspended for this clash.