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Pirates skipper speaks ahead of final

football02 December 2025 18:25| © Mzansi Football
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Nkosinathi Sibisi © Backpagepix

Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi struck a confident note when he spoke to the media on Tuesday in the build-up to Saturday’s Carling Knockout final where his side will take on Marumo Gallants in Polokwane.

HERE IS WHAT HE HAD TO SAY:

On preparations for the final

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“I think the guys are preparing well. We started the work yesterday. The boys are looking sharp. We know that it is a cup that has been eluding us for quite some time now, but we're really looking forward to playing the game on Saturday. We know what we're coming up against, a very good side in Marumo Gallants, but the boys, I think, are pretty confident.”

On the influence of coach Abdeslam Ouaddou

“Working with the coach for a couple of months we've been together, you can tell he was a defender in his playing days. So, he puts most of his focus on keeping those clean sheets, and you know, they always say defenders win your titles. So for us, it's very important to keep those clean sheets, and we know whenever we start a game, we have a goal guarantee, whether it's coming off the bench or whether it's the guys in the starting line-up.”

On much improved crowds watching Pirates this season

“It's quite a unique feeling to play in sold-out stadiums. Probably every week we play, you know, and for us, it's always nice whenever we have our 12th man there to give us that push. With the festive season, the season of giving, I think this one is for them. If we can get this one, it will be a gift from us to them.”

On keeping everyone in a large-sized squad happy

“I don't think it has been a challenge or an issue. We started the league season with two losses, and that's where the character was tested. Could they come back? I think the boys showed their character, and you can tell where whoever is playing, they give their best, you know, regardless of the position. Everyone who gets a chance, grab it, and it's up to the coach to make his choices. I think it speaks volumes to the character of the group. And it's something that we carry, you know, because we knew what we were doing and we trusted the process. And I think now we are reaping the rewards of the process. You know, it's only halfway through the season, but we are going to play our second final with the coach, you know, it shows the work that has been put into this technical team and the players as well.”

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