Six straight wins and a derby warning! Igesund reveals Pirates' key advantage over Chiefs

Gordon Igesund sees a major difference between the Soweto rivals, even if he is not ready to predict a winner.

Details: Speaking to FARPost ahead of Saturday's Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium, the former Orlando Pirates coach identified consistency as his old club's biggest advantage over Kaizer Chiefs. The Buccaneers have won six consecutive Betway Premiership matches, while their rivals have managed just one victory in their last five league games.

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“The difference is the consistency that Orlando Pirates are showing,” Igesund explained. “They are consistently playing well at the moment, and they are consistently scoring goals.”

However, the former South Africa national team manager warned against assuming that superior form automatically guarantees victory.

“Orlando Pirates now are in top form, but that doesn’t mean they are going to go and beat Kaizer Chiefs,” he stressed.

Igesund also acknowledged Chiefs' improvement following their 3-0 midweek cup victory. Both teams advanced to the Carling Knockout quarter-finals with convincing wins, although Chiefs remain fifth in the league standings despite being unbeaten.

The experienced coach believes the pressure of such an enormous occasion could prove important:

“It’s just how the players handle it because the Soweto Derby is the biggest game on their calendar.”

It's worth noting that Orlando Pirates have scored 19 goals and conceded just one in eight league matches this season. With 22 points, they sit one behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who have played an additional game. Kaizer Chiefs are fifth with 14 points.

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