Extra Time: The domestic cup looks to be the greatest prize left this season for the Soweto giants, Michael Madyira writes, but who needs – and wants – it more?
Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates have been handed what could be a huge test of character after they were drawn to meet in the Nedbank Cup semi-finals.
That means more responsibilities for the two Soweto giants whose season has just gotten tougher.
They are also involved in a taxing battle to secure a CAF Champions League spot for next season by finishing second on the Premier Soccer League table.
The Nedbank Cup is another avenue to play in Africa as it comes with a CAF Confederation ticket.
This is a competition Chiefs last won 10 years ago while Pirates last claimed it in 2014.
Now, both sides need it to appease their demanding fans after letting Mamelodi Sundowns romp to the PSL title glory.
As for Chiefs, the Nedbank Cup is their only remaining chance to win silverware this season.
It has been eight years since they last won a trophy.
After lifting the 2014/15 PSL title, their trophy cabinet has seen no new addition.
Pirates appear better than Chiefs, having last won a trophy six months ago when they lifted the MTN8.
But judging from the way they have progressed in this season’s Nedbank Cup, both Chiefs and Pirates have been uninspiring.
Pirates have twice been pushed to extra time by lower-division opponents.
At first, it was National First Division side All Stars FC who stretched the Buccaneers beyond regulation time in the Round of 16.
Third-tier outfit Dondol Stars then took them beyond extra time to a penalty shootout last Saturday.
“What is important is that we are in the semi-finals,” argued Pirates coach Jose Riveiro.
“The fact that we are in the semi-finals will keep more interest in the competition. I hope it is going to be good for us to have a good semi-final against a good team and with a lot of fans in the stadium.
“Let’s see who is the best to go until the end.”
Chiefs haven’t also been perfectly executing themselves as a team that is hungry for the Nedbank Cup.
Pictured above: Royal AM midfielder Tebogo Potsane takes on Kaizer Chiefs forward Christian Saile Basomboli
Image source: Kaizer Chiefs
