AmaZulu and Orlando Pirates are set to lock horns at Moses Mabidha Stadium this evening, and it may also be the start of an intriguing rivalry between Jose Riveiro and Romain Folz. This game will also bring many key player battles out on the pitch. Veli Mothwa versus Kermit Erasmus could be the main one with the question being, can Mothwa keep Erasmus out, or will Erasmus outwit Mothwa?
This Is Football.Africa spoke to the former Platinum Stars and Maritzburg United right-winger Morris Chauke, who highlighted what he believes will be a match clinching battle between the two teams. In his opinion, the clash between Erasmus and Mothwa could win or lose the game for each of their teams respectively.
“It’s true, Erasmus will be looking to make history, he will be looking for that goal because he was a bit of a disappointing player last week in the Soweto Derby,” Chauke said.
“He will need to prove a point, but it’s not going to be easy for him because you don’t just beat Mothwa. Both players will be looking to lift their teams. It will depend on who wants it more than one another. Erasmus has lifted the team and is the sharpest player in the box of all the Bucs players. But on the other hand Mothwa at times is unbeatable”.
So far this season, Mothwa has probably been Amazulu’s most consistent player. He has kept five clean sheets, four in the DStv Premiership and one in the MTN8 in 13 games so far.
“AmaZulu and Mothwa need this cup more than anything. Mothwa will tell himself that they better go to penalties knowing that he’s good on it,” Chauke continued..
“His marshalling and commitment will once again be proven, he will probably do what he did for Bafana during Cosafa tournament, so it’s not going to be easy for Erasmus and others to score.”
Meanwhile, the Telkom knockout winner coach, Wedson Nyirenda had his say at tactical intelligence for both coaches.
This will be the first meeting for the Spanish tactician and French mentor. Both will be looking to make history as they are eying for the first trophies for themselves.
“Pirates have been on fire since the coming in of coach Riveiro. Within a short time, Jose’s game can be seen in the players. Players are quick and dictating most parts of games.
“Also on the other hand, AmaZulu have not had much time with coach Romain Folz, but some new trends are being seen. The team has just been motivated and are free flowing.
“They are both tactical good, and it makes it a great final to watch. Both coaches will need to win this match, so the pressure is on.”
