“There’s One Responsibility” – Ncikazi Sends Clear Message as Pirates Close In on Historic League Title

Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi insists the Buccaneers are fully focused on the task ahead as they prepare for a potentially season-defining Betway Premiership clash against Durban City FC at the Orlando Stadium this afternoon.

With the league title race entering its final stretch, Pirates know victory could move them within touching distance of ending a 14-year wait for Premiership glory.

The Buccaneers head into the encounter carrying strong momentum after extending their unbeaten league run to 11 matches. Their impressive 3–0 victory away to Magesi FC in their previous outing further strengthened belief that this could finally be the season Pirates reclaim the domestic crown.

Pirates currently sit three points behind Mamelodi Sundowns on the Betway Premiership standings. However, Sundowns have already completed their league campaign, meaning Pirates still have an opportunity to overtake them.

A win over Durban City would see Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side draw level on points with Masandawana and potentially move above them on goal difference with one match still remaining.

That scenario would leave Pirates needing only a positive result – or possibly even a narrow defeat depending on goal difference calculations – in their final fixture away to Orbit College FC to secure the title.

Despite the significance of the occasion, Ncikazi says the team remains focused on one match at a time and is fully aware of the threat posed by Durban City.

“The emphasis is clear,” Ncikazi told Pirates media. “Our process is playing every game. We have played 28 games, and we still have two games to play.”

“We’re just looking at the next game – Durban City. They are a very tough opponent and highly motivated after winning the cup. It’s not going to be easy.”

Ncikazi also stressed the importance of delivering in front of the home supporters at Orlando Amstel Arena.

“But playing at Arena, there’s one responsibility for all of us – it’s to gather three points, and the mandate hasn’t changed. That’s what we are going to try and do in tomorrow’s match.”

Durban City arrive in Soweto with their own ambitions still intact. The club occupies seventh place on the Betway Premiership table with 38 points from 28 matches and remains determined to secure a top-eight finish before the season concludes.

Confidence within the squad has also been boosted after lifting the Nedbank Cup earlier this month, adding another layer of intrigue to the clash.

With Sundowns’ campaign already complete, the pressure – and opportunity – now rests squarely on Pirates.

Victory this afternoon would dramatically shift the balance in the title race and place the Buccaneers within sight of a long-awaited league triumph that supporters have craved for more than a decade.

But as Ncikazi made clear, Pirates are refusing to look too far ahead – even with history now within reach.

Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi says they are aware of the threat posed by Durban City. (Image: Orlando Pirates)