Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela has issued a warning to Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of the much-anticipated clash between the two SA football giants.
The Soweto giants are set to host Sundowns in a DStv Premiership clash on Wednesday night at Orlando Pirates in Soweto. The game is set to start at 19:30.
Maela, who was addressing the media on Monday at Rand Stadium said that Sundowns should expect a tough battle as “Pirates are capable of beating anyone.”
However, Pirates come from a disappointing 1-0 defeat against Jwaneng Galaxy of Botswana in the first leg of the CAF Champions League preliminary rounds.
In addition, the Buccaneers have had a slow start to the 2023/24 season after winning two of their opening matches in the league while drawing one and suffering one defeat.
Pirates have been pronounced as hot favourites to challenge Sundowns in the league title chase. This comes after they made a handful of high-profile signings in the off-season.
The Jose Riveiro-coached team signed Lesedi Kapinga, Karim Kimvuidi, Siphelo Baloni, Katlego Otladisa, Melusi Buthelezi, Patrick Maswanganyi and Siphamandla Gumede.
INNOCENT MAELA ANTICIPATE TIGHTLY CONTESTED AFFAIR AGAINST SUNDOWNS
Maela who is yet to start a league match for Pirates this season has said: “Look it’s not a secret that they [Sundowns] had enormous success. They’ve done things right and their process is finally paying off for them.”
“But we know what is it that we need to do to surpass their level. And I think we are in the right direction.
“Playing against them is always exciting. We know that we are more than capable of beating anyone in this league.
“As much as we’re saying that we are playing against a good team. I think they know where they are. They know that they are also playing a strong team. A confident team, a team that plays with aggression, a team that is enjoyable to watch. I know you [media] enjoy watching us.
“So it’s going to be an exciting game. I’m sure where they [Sundowns] are they also know that it’s not going to be easy, especially at Esgodini [Orlando Stadium].”
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