Orlando Pirates Kaizer Chiefs Carling Black Label Cup

Orlando Pirates vs Kaizer Chiefs: Samir Nurkovic of Kaizer Chiefs challenged by Abel Mabaso of Orlando Pirates during the 2019 Telkom Knockout quarter final match between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban, on 2 November 2019 ©Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix

Kaizer Chiefs hitman fires Soweto Derby warning

Striker Samir Nurković has been at the heart of Kaizer Chiefs’ revival with the Amakhosi striker having returned earlier in January.

Orlando Pirates Kaizer Chiefs Carling Black Label Cup

Orlando Pirates vs Kaizer Chiefs: Samir Nurkovic of Kaizer Chiefs challenged by Abel Mabaso of Orlando Pirates during the 2019 Telkom Knockout quarter final match between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban, on 2 November 2019 ©Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix

Kaizer Chiefs striker Samir Nurkovic says that the Amakhosi camp are only interested in taking three points away from the Orlando Stadium on Saturday.

Nurkovic will line up in a Soweto Derby for the fourth time since he arrived at Naturena at the outset of the 2019/20 season. The occasion is one he feels won’t overawe a team desperate to make amends for a slow start to the season.

Nurkovic issues a warning to Orlando Pirates

There is little doubt that the Serbian marksman adds an extra dimension to the Kaizer Chiefs attack and his return from injury has coincided with an upturn in fortunes for Gavin Hunt’s side.

“Playing in big derbies like the Soweto Derby is every player’s dream. I have had the privilege to play three derbies last season and I am happy to be part of this derby again,” Nurkovic told Chiefs’ website.

“Before I arrived in South Africa and came to Chiefs, I learnt about the Soweto derby – the fact that the players have the opportunity to play in front of 90 000 supporters made me really look forward to being part of such an occasion.

“My experience in the derby has been unbelievable thus far. Playing in front of 90 000 spectators is a dream come true for every player. It has exceeded all my expectations.”

Rewarding Kaizer Chiefs fans

While there will be no fans at the stadium Nurković and his teammates aim to hand the bragging rights to the Kaizer Chiefs faithful.

“It is unfortunate that this derby will have no supporters at the stadium, but I am sure they will be supporting us from home,” Nurkovic added.

“As much as we prefer to have our beloved fans at the stadium, they have to prioritise their and their families’ health by adhering to the government regulations. We urge them to stay at home and continue to support us from there. Thank you to all of them for doing so and hopefully we will have them in the stands soon.”

Nurković is yet to score against Orlando Pirates but will be hoping to open his account on Saturday in what will be his third league assignment against his club’s fiercest rivals.

“It is full focus for Chiefs as we get ready for the clash with Pirates. A big team like Kaizer Chiefs must only be interested in victories, that’s why we are going into this game, just like every other game, with full focus.”

Also read: Soweto derby | Check Gavin Hunt’s record against Orlando Pirates