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Maela ready for 'impressive' Kaizer Chiefs

football08 November 2019 13:22| © Mzansi Football
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Innocent Maela © Backpagepix

Orlando Pirates defender Innocent Maela admits his side will face a challenge against “impressive” Kaizer Chiefs in their Absa Premiership Soweto derby clash at the FNB Stadium on Saturday.

Chiefs claimed a penalty shoot-out victory over Pirates following a 2-2 draw in their Telkom Knockout quarterfinal just last weekend, a game in which Buccaneers defender Mthokozisi Dube was sent off and will be missing on Saturday.

They have since also lost captain Happy Jele following a midweek red card against Maritzburg United, meaning they will have to field a new look backline.

"They have been really impressive. They are united and you can see it on the field because they are playing good football," Maela told reporters.

"They have been able to do some things right and that's why they have had a turnaround. Chiefs and Pirates will always be giants of South African football."

Maela admits last weekend’s penalties loss hit the side hard as they felt they deserved more.

"It was a huge disappointment, considering the way we played. Even when we were one man down we kept on pushing and deserved something from the match," he said.

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