DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA - MAY 24: Mandla Ncikazi, interim coach of Orlando Pirates during the Betway Premiership match between AmaZulu FC and Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium on May 24, 2025 in Durban, South Africa. (Photo by Darren Stewart/Gallo Images)
Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has emphasised the need for maximum points in their game against Polokwane City to keep pace with Mamelodi Sundowns in the tight title race.
The Buccaneers will face Rise and Shine in what is expected to be a thrilling Betway Premiership clash at the Peter Mokaba Stadium tonight (kick-off is at 7.30pm).
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Pirates are currently tied on 41 points with Sundowns, but they lead the standings because of their superior goal difference. City are in position seven with 28 points after 18 games.
With the Brazilians also in action tonight against Golden Arrows, Ncikazi has emphasised the need to get maximum points against Rise and Shine this evening.
“There’s nothing less than three points that’s expected from us,” Ncikazi told Pirates media.
“Tough opponents, very physical, hard running and very good on set plays. Hence the leading goal scorer in the team is a centre back but we are going there to battle for points. Nothing less will be good for us.”
Pirates will have to do without the services of utility player Kamogelo Sebelebele, who is ruled out through suspension after picking up his fourth yellow card of the season during the Soweto derby win against Kaizer Chiefs last Saturday.
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The hosts will also be missing a key midfielder Ndamulelo Maphangule, who is suspended for one match after he was cautioned in the Polokwane Derby victory against Magesi FC last weekend.
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