“If We Do What We Prepared, We Will Win” – Ncikazi Sends Strong Title Message Ahead of Pirates Decider
The Betway Premiership title race is set for a dramatic conclusion this afternoon, and Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi believes the Buccaneers are fully prepared for the pressure of their season-defining clash against Orbit College FC.
Pirates head into the decisive encounter at the Mbombela Stadium knowing only a victory will keep their hopes of lifting the Betway Premiership trophy alive. Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00pm.
The Soweto giants currently sit second on the standings with 66 points, two behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who have already completed their league campaign on 68 points.
That leaves Pirates with a straightforward but high-pressure equation: beat Orbit College and end a 14-year wait for league glory.
Speaking to Pirates media ahead of the crucial fixture, Ncikazi acknowledged the emotional weight surrounding the match but stressed the importance of maintaining focus on the team’s football principles.
“We cannot ignore the emotional state of the game and what is at stake,” Ncikazi said.
“But it’s still important for us to get our facts correct and the message correctly to the players. We have a game to play. It will be 11 players on the field against a team fighting for their lives. We also need the points desperately.”
The Pirates assistant coach added that the Buccaneers intend to approach the game aggressively and stick to their attacking identity.
“We are planning to play the match the Pirates way – dominate the game, score goals and create chances. If we do what we prepared to do, I am very positive that we will get the result.”
Pirates could have taken control of the title race last weekend but were frustrated by a goalless draw against Durban City FC.
The dropped points allowed Sundowns to maintain their narrow advantage at the top, leaving Pirates with no margin for error heading into the final round of fixtures.
Despite the setback, belief remains strong within the Buccaneers camp that they can still complete the comeback.
While the spotlight will be on Pirates’ title ambitions, Orbit College enter the clash equally desperate for points.
The Mswenko Boys are battling to avoid relegation and currently sit second from bottom on 24 points following a 2–0 defeat to Stellenbosch FC in their previous match.
Orbit are just one point behind Chippa United and level with Marumo Gallants, meaning survival remains within reach if results elsewhere go in their favour.
With both teams carrying everything to play for, the stage is set for a tense and potentially historic afternoon in Mbombela.
For Pirates, it is a chance to finally reclaim the Betway Premiership crown. For Orbit College, it is a fight for survival. And with so much on the line, the final day promises high drama from the very first whistle.
Orlando Pirates need victory against Orbit College to end a 14-year wait for league glory. (Image: Orlando Pirates)