Three reasons why Chiefs CAN beat Pirates

There have been some contrasting fortunes for Chiefs and Pirates as they prepare for another edition of the Soweto derby, which will take centre stage on Saturday afternoon. Kick-off is at 15:30 at the FNB Stadium.

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Pirates are coming off the back of a 2-0 victory over Maritzburg United at the Orlando Stadium on Friday, and they have recently won five from five games across all competitions.

By contrast, a depleted Kaizer Chiefs team slipped to a 3-2 defeat against Golden Arrows on Sunday, and although Amakhosi are still fifth on the log, they are now three points behind Pirates.

Yet, the question remains, how can Chiefs possibly pull off an upset win over Pirates? Well, we take a closer look below.

Rediscover a clinical edge in front of goal

Game after game, coach Arthur Zwane has lamented a lack of execution when it comes to Chiefs’ finishing in front of goal, which hasn’t been helped by injuries to someone like Bonfils-Caleb Bimenyimana.

In fairness, Chiefs have still managed to score 22 goals this season, while conceding 24, and so maybe the real focus should be on improving their defence.

However, if they can finally take the opportunities they have been creating up front, there is every reason to believe they could surprise Pirates – especially if new striker Christian Saile can make the desired impact.

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Embrace the underdog status

In a game like this, there is often value in coming into a derby without a weight of expectation. It should allow for Chiefs to quietly plot an ambush against a Pirates side that will be heavily favoured to come out on top.

Past form often goes out the window when it comes to the Soweto derby, which generally brings out the best of big-game players, as we saw when Bafana midfielder Yusuf Maart scored a wonder goal from inside his own half during the last derby at the end of October.

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Point to prove

Last weekend’s loss to Golden Arrows would have stung, while Chiefs coach Arthur Zwane has also faced plenty of criticism this week as pressure continues to build.

I can imagine that the Amakhosi players will want to respond with a massive performance that not only reminds everyone what Chiefs are capable of, but serves to defend the job of their popular coach.

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CHIEFS HAVE MANAGED JUST 28 LOG POINTS FROM 20 GAMES