Cape Argus E-dition

Brave football needed to triumph over Sundowns

Five things Pirates can do to end their five-match losing streak against The Brazilians

HERMAN GIBBS

UNDAUNTED Orlando Pirates may have a poor record against Mamelodi Sundowns, but they are determined to capitalise on home advantage at the Orlando Stadium in the first leg of their MTN8 semi-final tie today.

In the head-to-head count of their past five clashes, Pirates have lost all five matches across various domestic competitions.

There is, however, light at the end of the tunnel because there are at least five things that Pirates can do to end this winless streak against Sundowns.

1. Play brave football

Pirates coach José Riveiro should send his team out with the express desire to play brave football. They should look to take the initiative from the start, and that means taking the game to Sundowns. Pirates have skilful individuals who can impose themselves on a game. They should be given licence to express themselves. Sundowns have been thrown out of their stride when opponents go toe-to-toe with them.

2. Discipline on defence

Riveiro has been floating between a four-man and three-man rearguard in recent matches. However, each time the players on duty were superb. By this time, it is well known that Sundowns battle when opponents load their defence because by their own admission it prevents them from playing football.

3. Pirates must convert scoring chances

The arrival of Kermit Erasmus and Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo will enhance the team’s ability to create scoring chances, which has not been a major problem this season. The big problem has been converting the scoring chances and Riveiro will have to make a call on who will be up front in the final third.

4. The mood around the team

Pirates captain Innocent Maela has said the players are “switched on” for today’s clash. He has offered his teammates sound advice, saying they must not play the occasion of a cup semi-final.

The spate of Pirates signings will also step up the competitiveness in the ranks and that augers well for committed performances on the field of play as players try to hold on to positions in the starting XI.

5. The real Lorch must please stand up

Attacking midfield ace Thembinkosi Lorch returned from a lengthy injury lay-off six weeks ago, but he is nowhere near his best form. He has had limited game time and on occasions, his form has been a mixture of hot and cold. His wing play can be menacing and his feeds from out wide can pose problems for opposition defences.

SPORT

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2022-10-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

2022-10-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

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