Former Orlando Pirates coach Augusto Palacious says the recent form counts for nothing when it comes to the Soweto derby. Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs are set to square off in the DStv Premiership at FNB Stadium on Saturday.
Having mentored the Buccaneers in the Soweto derby before, the renowned Peruvian coach is worth a listen. Palacious, who was the last coach to win the Buccaneers a league in 2012, has made himself clear, saying anyone can come out victorious on the day.
“No one has the advantage,” Palacious told This is Football.Africa.
“You must remember, it’s a new game, it’s a 90-minute game, both teams have prepared. I understand that Chiefs are coming from the [draw], I understand Pirates are coming from the win but it’s a derby you cannot predict.”
Asked if Kermit Erasmus and Monnapule Saleng are the key players for the Buccaneers in the derby, he said: “Here in PSL, a player can perform well in one game and not perform in the next game, you can’t predict the performance of the individual players.”
Since rejoining the Sea Robbers in the recently ended transfer window, Romeo has featured in five games across all competitions and scored two goals. Monnapule Saleng bagged back-to-back braces in the last two matches that Pirates have played.
Jose Riveiro’s side will have to make do without the suspended Miguel Timm, after accumulating four yellow cards. Palacious admitted that the Happy People will miss the midfielder, but says it’s an opportunity for whoever will be selected as his replacement to claim the spot.
“Very good player, but Pirates have very good players [who can replace Timm], you have Motshwari, you have Monare and the player who is given the opportunity will need to play more than 200%. Pirates have quality players,” he said.
