As Orlando Pirates prepare for one of the biggest fixtures in South African football, right-back Bandile Shandu has spoken with confidence and belief ahead of Saturday’s Soweto Derby clash against Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium.
The much-anticipated encounter is the first of two upcoming derbies, with the second set for May 10 in the Nedbank Cup final at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium.
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Saturday’s showdown comes at a crucial time for Pirates, who are still reeling from a disappointing 1-0 midweek defeat to Sekhukhune United at Orlando Stadium – a result that severely dented their Betway Premiership title hopes.
Now trailing Mamelodi Sundowns by 12 points, albeit with two games in hand, the Buccaneers know that victory against their bitter rivals could not only restore morale but also keep alive their slim hopes of a dramatic league finish.
Speaking at the Soweto Derby press conference at Melrose Arch in Johannesburg on Thursday, Shandu reflected on the mood in the Pirates camp – focused, united, and motivated.
“I think the derby is going to be a good game for us. We’re looking forward to it,” Shandu said. “We’re working hard in terms of getting better as individuals, as a team as well. And I think if we do what the coach wants, the results will take care of themselves.”
For Shandu, the unity in the team will be the key to unlocking success on derby day.
“We’ve got a great group. I think we’ve shown that the unity is there, the camaraderie is there, and we are very united. That has proven in terms of the way that we play and support one another. That’s been the backbone of our team in terms of staying together. We’re basically a family, we support each other, and we’re willing to fight for one another on the pitch.”
Despite the high stakes and the pressure of playing in front of a packed FNB Stadium, Shandu insists the players are embracing the occasion and trusting in their preparation.
“The derby is a big occasion. We are working very hard at training, and the coach has also illustrated that. We really want to make our fans happy – that plays a huge role for us.”
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He added: “It’s going to be tough. We respect our opponents, but we also know how good we are. If we do the things the coach wants according to the game plan, like I said, the result will take care of itself.”
With their title hopes hanging by a thread, Pirates now turn to one of the most emotionally charged fixtures in Mzansi football – the Soweto Derby – for redemption, pride, and momentum heading into the season’s final stretch.
