Orlando Pirates and SuperSport United Set for Nedbank Cup Showdown

Orlando Pirates will take on SuperSport United at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday as they continue their pursuit of a third consecutive Nedbank Cup title. The highly anticipated quarterfinal clash is set to kick off at 3pm CAT.

Orlando Pirates enter the encounter with mixed form, having suffered a 2-0 defeat to Marumo Gallants in the league before bouncing back with a victory over Chippa United on Wednesday night. The Buccaneers currently trail Betway Premiership leaders Mamelodi Sundowns by 16 points, though Sundowns dropped points in their last match against Golden Arrows.

José Riveiro’s men have their sights set on making history by securing their second-ever Nedbank Cup three-peat, having lifted the trophy in the last two seasons. A win on Saturday would bring them one step closer to an 11th Nedbank Cup title.

SuperSport United, on the other hand, find themselves in a challenging position in the league, sitting just four points above the relegation zone. Gavin Hunt’s side was held to a goalless draw by AmaZulu FC in midweek, marking yet another inconsistent performance. Matsatsantsa have struggled for victories, winning only twice in their last seven matches across all competitions.

Despite their struggles, SuperSport have navigated their way to the quarterfinals by overcoming Magesi FC in the round of 32 and edging Cape Town Spurs in extra time during the round of 16. They will be eager to reverse their fortunes against Pirates, who defeated them 3-1 in extra time in their MTN8 quarterfinal clash earlier this season.

SuperSport do, however, have history on their side in this competition, having won the last two Nedbank Cup finals between these two teams. That experience will give them confidence as they aim to upset the defending champions.

Players to Watch

For SuperSport United, Christian Saile has been a bright spark since joining on loan from Kaizer Chiefs. The forward has netted three goals in seven appearances and will be eager to add to his tally in the Nedbank Cup.

Orlando Pirates will rely on the in-form Tshegofatso Mabasa, who has been lethal in the competition. The striker has already scored four goals in two Nedbank Cup appearances this season, including a hat-trick against Baroka FC in the round of 32. His finishing ability could prove crucial in a high-stakes knockout match.

Head-to-Head (Last Five Meetings)

• SuperSport United wins: 1
• Orlando Pirates wins: 4
• Draws: 0

With Pirates holding the upper hand in recent meetings, SuperSport United will need to deliver a standout performance to keep their cup ambitions alive. The stage is set for an intense battle, with both sides eager to take a step closer to silverware.