Jomo Sono Explains Why He Expects Orlando Pirates To Beat Kaizer Chiefs

Jomo Sono believes Orlando Pirates have given themselves a clear advantage ahead of Saturday’s Soweto Derby, pointing to their consistency and the way they have developed young players as major reasons for his prediction.

The former Pirates star expects the Buccaneers to overcome Kaizer Chiefs when the rivals meet in a Betway Premiership encounter at FNB Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 15:30.

Sono, speaking to KickOff, acknowledged that Chiefs have shown encouraging signs under coach Fernando da Cruz, particularly after their 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy. However, he argued that Pirates have maintained a more consistent level of performance throughout the campaign.

“Pirates are going to win, obviously. Chiefs look promising now, but the thing is Pirates has been consistent,” he said.

The league positions provide further context to the former midfielder’s assessment. Pirates are second with 22 points from eight matches, just one point behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, despite having a game in hand. Chiefs occupy fifth place with 14 points from the same number of matches.

For Da Cruz’s side, Saturday’s meeting offers an opportunity to reduce the gap between the two Soweto rivals. Chiefs will also have important defensive options available again, with Brandon Petersen and Rushwin Dortley expected to strengthen the team’s backline.

Pirates, meanwhile, have received a boost from the return of Bafana Bafana internationals Evidence Makgopa, Thalente Mbatha and Mohau Nkota after their respective injury problems.

Sono also examined Chiefs’ recent performance against TS Galaxy, suggesting that the scoreline did not tell the full story of the encounter. He observed that the teams appeared evenly matched before Chiefs found the opening goal.

According to him, Galaxy’s defensive structure was affected after centre-back Mlondi Mncwango was lost, allowing Chiefs to take greater control and open up the score.

The Pirates legend further praised the club’s approach to introducing younger players, saying their gradual integration has contributed to the team’s consistency.

With both sides receiving boosts ahead of the meeting, Saturday’s contest carries significance beyond local bragging rights. But Sono has already made his position clear, believing Pirates’ current form gives them the edge.

Source: https://x.com/kickoffmagazine/status/2116409904701325761?s=46

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