Nie Cele
Stakes are high for today’s derby match between Mzansi’s arch rivals Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.
Tickets are sold out for this Africa’s biggest derby match. A full house and a packed to the rafters’ calabash stadium are expected.
Stakeholders , Stadium Management, JMPD and SAPS have proclaimed that it’s all systems go with traffic management, safety and security measures.
Bertie Grobbelaar, Managing Director Stadium Management SA, told the packed media , the Soweto Derby is one of the biggest events to be held annually at FNB Stadium.
“ No ticket no access. The safety and security of spectators is our number one priority,” He said.
At a media briefing preceding the match, Coaches of both teams have spoken at length about their readiness but were very cagey about who is likely to emerge victorious on the day.
On paper Chiefs are favourites by virtue of booting out Pirates on penalties in the Telkom knockout cup quarterfinal tourney seven days ago.
Pressed about the winner? Ernst Middendorp, Chiefs coach said, “No Comment”
Under a barrage of questions from the media? He said, “I still have a lot of work to do and manage the games.”
Whereas Bucs coach, Rulani Mokoena also steadfastly refused to be drawn to that question.
“When a season starts, we have a programme and plan. We knew about this derby match. We are just going out for three points. At Pirates we are work in progress and unfortunately not getting the results we deserve.”
“I don’t bet and don’t believe in score predictions.”
Players of both teams also had something to say about this match.
Khama Billiat, Chiefs forward, said, “Coach gives us directions on how to approach games. But there is always room for improvement.”
Innocent Maela, Bucs defender said, “Good results will come.”
Meanwhile over 2000 fans are going to be entertained in the Absa fan zone.
Mthunzi Jonas, Absa Sponsorship Manager, told the media that will six lucky winners be afforded a chance to take penalties and stand a chance to take home R1000-00.
This is part of Woza Nazo competition that has dished out millions to fans in the past three seasons.
PIC SOURCED FROM ORLANDO PIRATES WEBSITE.
