Kaizer Chiefs are heading into the highly anticipated Soweto derby against Orlando Pirates with confidence and a sense of calm, thanks to their recent five-game winning streak in the league. According to Given Msimango, the team’s consistency and mentality shift have been key to their turnaround. Msimango, who has been out due to injury, attributes the team’s success to their ability to stick to their methods, even in difficult situations.
Chiefs will visit Pirates at the FNB Stadium on Sunday, looking to cement their top three aspirations and guarantee a CAF Confederation Cup qualification spot next season. Despite being the underdogs on paper, Msimango believes that the team’s recent results have been a confidence booster, and they don’t need to change their approach for the derby. The Soweto derby is one of the most highly anticipated matches in the South African football calendar, with form often counting for nothing due to the magnitude of the game.
Consistency and Mentality Shift
Msimango revealed that the team’s consistency and mentality shift have been crucial to their positive change. “I think there’s been a consistency in methods, regardless of how difficult the situation is,” he said. “We have applied ourselves very well, and it’s starting to show now that consistency pays off. The mentality shift also plays a huge role.”
Recent Results
Chiefs’ recent results have been impressive, with five wins and one draw in their last six league games. This streak has lifted the pressure off the shoulders of co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef, with many calling for them to be given the reins permanently. Msimango warned his teammates about playing the occasion, rather than the game, and insisted that they can’t let go of their working methods, especially after the 3-0 defeat in the reverse leg.
Here are some key points to consider ahead of the Soweto derby:
- Kaizer Chiefs are on a five-game winning streak in the league
- The team’s consistency and mentality shift have been key to their turnaround
- Chiefs are looking to cement their top three aspirations and guarantee a CAF Confederation Cup qualification spot next season
- The Soweto derby is one of the most highly anticipated matches in the South African football calendar
A win for Chiefs would go a long way in cementing their top three finish, and Msimango believes that the team has what it takes to come out on top. As the South African Football Association continues to promote the development of football in the country, matches like the Soweto derby are a testament to the passion and dedication of the fans.
