By Michael Madyira
Former Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates coach Muhsin Ertugral has conceded it is difficult to pick a team as possible runner-up to Premier Soccer League champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
Masandawana were confirmed as PSL title winners last weekend, leaving the focus on the quest to finish second.
The trio of Pirates, SuperSport United and Chiefs are neck and neck on the standings all tied on 40 points, locked in this tense battle for second place.
“I think it will be interesting going into the last week,” Ertugral told Scrolla.Africa
“But before you can say anything, three teams are close to each other. It’s a different approach altogether for the teams.
“Week in, week out, every game is a different story. It could be a problem for all three.”
Cape Town City and Richards Bay are also in the top-two race although they have outside chances.
Those two teams, together with SuperSport are out of the Nedbank Cup and will be resting next weekend as Chiefs and Pirates take part in the quarter-finals.
Ertugral feels the Nedbank Cup can have a spillover effect in league business.
“Cup games are also very much important,” said the Turkish tactician.
“You have the possibility to reach the final and then it motivates and gives the team morale. That plays a huge role for those teams to get to second spot.
“So, obviously the Cup games come as important. If you go to the next round, you stay in the competition. These are the elements you need to look at.
“You cannot only look at the teams’ tactical approach. The game is also based on certain emotions during the game, so that will also play a huge role.”
In recent seasons, both Chiefs and Pirates have faltered in the crucial stages of the league campaign and they would be keen to avoid the same mistakes.
Pictured above: Muhsin Ertugral
Image source: Kaizer Chiefs
