Nie Cele
Siwele FC Coach, Lehlohonolo Seema is inadvertently smelling defeat at the hands of a well oiled machine Orlando Pirates before even his charges kick the ball. This was an understanding created by his utterances during a Carling Knockout match previews conference held at ABINBEV Africa Headquarters in Branston, Johannesburg.
To quote just a few, he said, “It’s not easy to play Orlando Pirates at Orlando Stadium, You are as good as your last two matches , they are an in-form team that has quality players in almost every department. At Pirates anyone can score.“
Hearing that from a seasoned coach might mean two things, unavoidable defeat coming or down-playing what he wants to achieve in this match.
The retired Mosotho footballer who played as a defender and midfielder for Celtics and the Buccaneers had a privilege of captaining both teams a feat rare in local football.
Pressed about this upcoming last 16 Carling Knockout match, He revealed his outfit has no core team.
“Our team is changing everyday , We are seeds and still watering. We play whoever is available. But on the day we will put the best team and we are not under any pressure our main focus is the bread and butter league matches. Whoever is fit will play.”
Meanwhile his spirited counterpart, Bucs Gaffer, Abdeslam Ouaddou, told the media Carling Knocknout was an important event for the clubs.
“For us it’s an important competition. At Pirates we take competitions seriously. We are expecting a stranger and a tough opposition. We want to try and go to the next round. For my players it’s another game and I expect my players to give their best . I will put the best team on the day .
“ Most players are ready but some are still on rehabilitation following the unfortunate road traffic accident last month.”
Ouaddou also revealed Bucs fans push them to do better in every match.
