As the countdown begins to a pivotal Sunday, Orlando Pirates head coach Roscoe Krieling is issuing a clarion call to his players “focus on the game, not the occasion”.
The Buccaneers will face their fierce Soweto rivals, Kaizer Chiefs, at the Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaMashu at 12:30pm, with the stakes higher than ever in this climactic DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) showdown.
Currently perched atop the DDC table with an impressive 57 points after 23 matches, Pirates are on the cusp of claiming their first title. A victory this weekend would grant them a six-point lead over second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns, who have been be breathing down their necks.
However, Krieling is acutely aware of the historical obstacles presented by Chiefs; the Buccaneers have not triumphed over Amakhosi in their last five meetings, suffering four defeats and managing just one draw.
“Derby day is always special, but at this level, it will be just another game,” said Krieling.
“That said, we cannot underestimate the psychological impact these fixtures have on players. I will urge my team not to lose themselves in the occasion but to focus on our game plan. Professionalism and a relentless pursuit of three points are what we will need.”
The weight of history will loom large as Pirates aim to break their three-season winless streak against Chiefs.
“We are aware that we haven’t beaten Chiefs in years, but we want to change that narrative,” Krieling declared.
“Yet, we cannot dwell on the past. Our priority will be executing our strategy and playing our normal game.”
On the other side, Chiefs currently sitting fifth in the standings with a mere 36 points. The reigning champions, who have struggled this season, are aware that the upcoming match is not just about pride but also about reigniting their season.
After the derby, Pirates will face Stellenbosch FC next weekend in a daunting away trip.
Krieling remains optimistic. “If we can secure maximum points this weekend and next, I believe we will edge closer to the line. The pressure will then be on Sundowns to catch us,” he noted, ready to inspire his squad to seize this momentous opportunity.