"I think the team that will give its best will win" - Zwane


By Neo Poho

Ahead of the much anticipated Soweto Derby on Saturday the 25th of February 2023, Kaizer Chiefs head coach Arthur Zwane believes that the team that wants it the most between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates will win the clash.

Speaking at the Soweto Derby press conference in Johannesburg on Thursday, Zwane mentioned that he is confident that his side is ready for the big clash stating the fact that past results and recent performances have no say in the outcome of the Soweto Derby.

"Personally I would say the team that will give its best on the day will win the clash, the Soweto Derby is not about who is on form or not however, it is a clash of who wants it more and how deep is the desire to win," Zwane said.

Zwane's charges who are currently occupying the 5th spot on the DSTV Premiership table have been inconsistent with their results lately much to the frustration of the fans however, the 49 year old Chiefs coach was quick to defend his side stating that the inconsistency has been caused by numerous other factors that the public eye seem to be ignorant about.

"We are obviously not happy about where we are after 20 games in the league but we have equally had our fair share of challenges along the way, our injury list for one has been one of the huge factor contributing to the inconsistency of the side, sometimes we experience unforeseen circumstances that also hinder our progress as a team but overall I believe we have done our best and we can only build on from here,"said Zwane.

With the pressure of coaching a team like Kaizer Chiefs being imminent, Zwane furthermore spoke about how he seeks advice from previous Chiefs legends and players especially when the Soweto Derby is approaching, "I do seek for advice at times and I am blessed to say I have someone like Conti Kubheka who is always willing to help me when the going gets tough, Conti has a wealth of experience in the game and his suggestions are always helpful," Zwane added.

Amakhosi won the last Soweto Derby last year in October at the FNB Stadium 1-0 and they managed to do so without teenage sensation Mduduzi Shabalala who has been exceptional since making his senior debut for the Glamour Boys from the reserve team during the beginning of the season. 

When asked about Shabalala, Zwane didn't hesitate to mention that the youngster might make his Soweto Derby debut on Saturday, "It is obviously going to be an important match for him, he has been doing well lately and he is an exciting young player so seeing him make his Soweto Derby debut will certainly give him that extra motivation and confidence, I like the way he is focused on and off the pitch," Zwane alluded.

Zwane also dismissed any questions surrounding his immediate future and whether their next result against their rivals will signal his exit.

"As far as I know I am the head coach of Kaizer Chiefs and I am not going into this game worried about my job or worried about other things, the focus is on playing this game and making sure the players apply themselves correctly," said the 49 year old mentor. 

With Kick-off expected to be 15:30 at the FNB Stadium on Saturday afternoon, Chiefs will be looking to to continue their recent dominance over their fiercest rivals, holding a four-game undefeated streak against the Sea Robbers.

Article Tags

Football

Kaizer Chiefs

Orlando Pirates

Soweto Derby

Cancel

    Most Read