Orlando Pirates are fired up to secure their fourth victory in five league outings when they square off against Ajax Cape Town at the Mother City this Wednesday evening.
The Cape Town Stadium will host this much-anticipated clash, kicking off at 7:30pm. This encounter marks the second meeting between these teams this season, with Pirates narrowly edging the first match 1-0 at home back in September.
Buccaneers’ recent impressive form has propelled them to third place on the PSL table, trailing the leaders Mamelodi Sundowns by just five points. Under the guidance of head coach Milutin Sredojevic, the team has secured convincing wins over Platinum Stars, Sundowns, and Baroka FC.
Strengthening their squad during the transfer window, Pirates have welcomed standout midfield playmaker Xolani Mlambo from Bidvest Wits, alongside the highly touted Zambian Footballer of the Year, Augustine Mulenga. Mulenga is expected to join the team next week.
Coach Sredojevic expressed satisfaction with his squad’s performance in their recent 2-0 victory over Dikwena and highlighted the strong camaraderie within the team.
“We executed the game plan perfectly,” he shared. “We surged forward at the right moments. The second goal effectively sealed the win.
“We have a fantastic team spirit. We love each other and the jersey. We’re all committed to the cause.
“Our foundation is built on this solid spirit. Our celebrations are unique, almost like basketball players beating chests to celebrate, showing we’re on the right path,” added the Serbian coach.
Ajax Cape Town currently finds themselves struggling near the foot of the table, placed second last and three points shy of safety.
Former Pirates coach Muhsin Ertugral now leads the Urban Warriors and will be galvanising his squad for what promises to be a thrilling contest against his former team.
The Cape side’s recent league record includes four defeats and a solitary win in their last six games. However, their January transfer window arrivals include Samuel Julies, Gerald Takwara, Siyanda Zwane, Fagrie Lakay, Yannick Zakri, and Tendai Ndoro to reinforce the team.
Note that Takwara is suspended for this game, while Ndoro’s eligibility remains uncertain. The former Pirates striker missed Ajax’s last encounter — a 0-0 draw versus Free State Stars.
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