Mandla Ncikazi Explains Why Kaizer Chiefs Are the Favourites Ahead of Nedbank Cup Final

As the much-anticipated Nedbank Cup final draws closer, Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has weighed in on the upcoming clash, explaining why he believes Kaizer Chiefs hold the advantage heading into Saturday’s showdown. The two South African giants will meet at the sold-out Moses Mabhida Stadium, with the Buccaneers looking to secure their third consecutive Nedbank Cup trophy.

Pirates’ Quest for a Historic Third Cup

Orlando Pirates have already had a strong season, defeating Kaizer Chiefs twice in the Betway Premiership. However, despite the head-to-head advantage, Ncikazi insists that Amakhosi are the team to beat in the upcoming cup final.

The Buccaneers have been impressive in their cup runs, but Ncikazi highlighted several factors that make Chiefs the favourites heading into the game, including their strong form in the tournament.

“We know we’re playing against a very good team, Kaizer Chiefs,” Ncikazi told journalists at a pre-match press conference on Wednesday. “Currently, they have scored 14 goals. I think they are the top scorers in the tournament. They’ve only conceded two. So, it’s not going to be an easy match.”

Chiefs’ Strong Form in the Nedbank Cup

Chiefs have been in excellent form in the Nedbank Cup this season, scoring freely while maintaining a solid defensive record. Their attacking strength and resilience at the back have made them formidable opponents for any team, and Ncikazi has acknowledged their quality.

The Amakhosi have also been aided by a less grueling schedule, with fewer games under their belt compared to Pirates, who have been battling on multiple fronts throughout the season.

Ncikazi: “We Are Not Favourites”

Despite the strong showing from the Buccaneers this season, Ncikazi was quick to dismiss suggestions that his team is the favourite for Saturday’s final. Instead, he emphasized the importance of acknowledging Chiefs’ advantage in terms of squad rest and recent performances.

“Please allow me to make a small correction, we are not favourites! Being a favourite is very subjective. It depends on how you look at it,” he said.

One of the main reasons Ncikazi gives for Chiefs being the favourites is their recent cup final victory, which came in a clash between the two teams. Additionally, Pirates’ 48-game schedule this season has taken a toll on the squad’s physical and mental resources. In contrast, Chiefs have only played 34 matches, which means they are coming into the final well-rested and with more time to prepare.

“Coming into this game, we were playing yesterday, and Chiefs had a whole week of preparation. So, we don’t want to fall into the fallacy of thinking we are favourites,” Ncikazi added.

A Battle of the Giants

This weekend’s final promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of South Africa’s biggest football clubs, with both teams aiming to claim the prestigious Nedbank Cup. While Orlando Pirates are chasing a historic third consecutive title, Kaizer Chiefs will be looking to add another cup to their collection.

With Ncikazi’s candid analysis of the situation, it’s clear that both teams will face significant challenges. The match is set to be a gripping contest, with the outcome likely to be decided by the finest of margins.

As the countdown to the final continues, football fans around the country are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an unforgettable spectacle at Moses Mabhida Stadium. Will the well-rested Chiefs rise to the occasion, or will Pirates secure a historic third consecutive trophy?

Be sure to tune in this Saturday to catch all the action as these two giants of South African football battle it out for supremacy.