Tapelo Xoki reveals how Pirates deal with hype of the Soweto Derby

Orlando Pirates defender Tapelo Xoki has revealed how they deal with the hype of the Soweto Derby in the Buccaneers camp.

The Pirates-Kaizer Chiefs clash is one of the biggest in the PSL calendar as it attracts many viewers across the globe and stadium.

When the two teams meet, it is a sold-out affair as the FNB Stadium goes to full 90 000 capacity.

Besides a fight to get maximum points, pride and bragging rights are at stake to see who rules Soweto.

HOW THE TECHNICAL TEAM HELPS THE PLAYERS

According to Xoki, the technical team helps the squad to stay grounded and focused on the task at hand.

“Luckily for us we have a good technical team, that keeps us grounded, keeps us focused. They make sure we are focused on the games and task at hand,” Xoki told the media.

“They have always tried to make sure that we stick to the game plan, game mode.

“We don’t really listen to the outside noise; even if we not doing well, we don’t listen. We always look within and look at the things that we do at training and what we want to improve on.

“Coming to this game, it’s not going to be different; we are going to try to focus on the game at hand, not play the occasion, but play the game.”

IMPORTANCE OF KEEPING A CLEANSHEET

Xoki also explained the importance of keeping a clean sheet on Saturday against Chiefs.

“It will be best if that happens; if we keep it clean at the back, then we score one goal we win the game.

“We always try to be solid as a team and make teams know that we are a hard team to beat.

“That always give us advantage going to games because we know our guys up front can always produce goals,” he added.

The much-anticipated 177th Soweto Derby kicks off at 3:30 pm.

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