One factor that keeps Orlando Pirates thriving in cup competitions

Orlando Pirates defender Tapelo Xoki has revealed one factor that keeps the Soweto giants thriving in cup competitions.

Pirates have already won the MTN8 this season, and now their focus is on securing the Nedbank Cup.

The DStv Premiership side began their campaign on a bright note Saturday evening at the Wits Stadium.

They defeatedsecond-tierr outfit All Stars FC 2-0 to book a place in the last 16 of the Nedbank Cup.

KEEPING CLEANSHEETS

According to Xoki, keeping a cleansheet makes things easier for the whole team. The forwards will not be put under pressure to comeback and score many goals.

“In cup games, it’s very important to keep a clean sheet, we know that to have to make things easier for the guys up front,” said Xoki.

“We have to make sure that we don’t concede, by not conceding we give ourselves a chance to win the game.

“We make sure in every game, we try to keep a cleansheet, even in the previous cup that we’ve won we had I think about five cleansheets. So it’s always the mentality going to the games that we don’t concede.

“This is not a league game, there is no time to get back, so we have to try and make sure we solidify at the back then get one [goal]. If we get one then we make sure we close it out.”

NEDBANK CUP GOAL

Xoki further revealed his side will be going all out for the Nedbank Cup glory. The advantage of lifting the top 32-cup title is that it allows Pirates to play in the CAF Confederation Cup.

“We always try to play for every cup that’s available, this is no different [Nedbank Cup],” added Xoki.

“We have to make sure that we take each game as it comes, respect the opponents that we get and try to beat everyone that is put in front of us. We play the cup to win the cup.”

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