By Michael Madyira
Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates are bidding to end the year on a high with victories in their respective two matches before the long Africa Cup of Nations break.
Chiefs host Richards Bay on Saturday, before wrapping up 2023 with a trip to Sekhukhune United on 30 December.
Their Soweto rivals Pirates will be at Peter Mokaba Stadium to face SuperSport United on Saturday and then welcome Stellenbosch on 29 December.
The task to keep close track of log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns appears a tough one with the Buccaneers third on the table.
Jose Riveiro’s side has eight points fewer than Masandawana who, however, enjoy three games in hand.
It is a more difficult assignment for Chiefs who are in position six with a distant 13 points less than the Brazilians.
But both the Soweto giants have chances to finish the year on Sundowns’ tail in the top three – although it is largely dependent on how teams above them perform.
SuperSport coach Gavin Hunt is convinced Pirates have the quality to achieve big things.
“They have won some games in a row, they have a good squad, it is a far better squad,” said Hunt.
“They have players in every position. It doesn’t really matter who goes out or who comes in. An excellent squad, with a good coach – they won two trophies last year and finished second above us.
“They pipped us right at the end which left a bitter taste. They have quality and a player [Patrick Maswanganyi] who was our best last season and he is a mainstay in their team.”
While Chiefs and Pirates are left with two games, Sundowns continue with their hectic schedule but that is an opportunity to further increase their lead.
They visit Cape Town City on Sunday, before hosting Moroka Swallows on Wednesday and then close the year at home against Polokwane City.
There is also the relegation battle between Cape Town Spurs, Richards Bay and TS Galaxy before PSL action returns on 13 February 2024 after the Afcon tournament.
Pictured above: Kaizer Chiefs against Orlando Pirates earlier this season.
Image source: Kaizer Chiefs
