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Vilakazi, Riveiro, Zwane GFXGOAL
Dingizwe Gwala

PSL showdown: Orlando Pirates look to keep up with Mamelodi Sundowns, but AmaZulu and Arthur Zwane ready to to hit Soweto giants where it hurts

AmaZulu visit Orlando Pirates at the Orlando Stadium for a top versus bottom of the Premier Soccer League clash as Usuthu are desperate for points.

Arthur Zwane and Vusumuzi Vilakazi are about to face their ultimate test as co-head coaches of AmaZulu in a highly anticipated grudge match against Orlando Pirates.

The scars from last season's Nedbank Cup quarter-final defeat, where controversial officiating cast a shadow over the match, are still fresh for Usuthu.

With a rocky start to the season, AmaZulu's challenges only intensify as they go up against a soaring Pirates squad, led by the confident Jose Riveiro.

The clash is set for Orlando Stadium, a familiar fortress for the Buccaneers, despite their recent stumble against Magesi. Pirates are on a mission to reclaim the PSL title, currently held by Sundowns, who have dominated the league for seven consecutive seasons.

Join GOAL as we look ahead to the match coming up this Friday.

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  • Arthur Zwane and Vusumuzi Vilakazi, AmaZuluBackpage

    New combination ay Usuthu

    As the season kicked off, AmaZulu chairman Sandile Zungu made a bold return to the forefront, shaking things up by parting ways with Pablo Franco after a dismal opening.

    Zungu has entrusted the reins to Zwane and Vilakazi, a duo eager to prove themselves, despite a shaky start that saw them lose 2-1 to Stellenbosch in the Carling Knockout. Yet, there’s a glimmer of hope: Vilakazi led Richards Bay to victory over Pirates last season, and Zwane remains undefeated against them from his time at Kaizer Chiefs.

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  • Pirates GFX GOAL

    Pirates’ impressive form

    Pirates have made a spectacular start to the league, boasting four wins from four matches and matching the defending champions Sundowns with a perfect dozen points.

    Their offensive prowess is on full display, having scored eight goals while conceding only once. As the race for the title heats up, Pirates know that maintaining clean sheets could be crucial if it comes down to goal difference.

  • Orlando Pirates players, October 2024BackPagePix

    A blessing in disguise

    While the Buccaneers were undoubtedly disappointed to exit the Carling Knockout at the hands of Magesi - especially considering their notorious track record in the tournament - it might prove to be a blessing in disguise.

    With their sights set on the PSL and the upcoming Caf Champions League group stages, fewer fixtures could allow them to channel their energy more effectively.

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  • Tshegfatso Mabasa, Orlando Pirates MTN8 vs Stellenbosch, October 2024BackPagePix

    Makgopa’ & Mabasa's top form

    Striker Evidence Makgopa, at just 24, is making waves this season, providing Riveiro with valuable options upfront alongside the in-form Tshegofatso Mabasa. Makgopa has scored in every league match so far, netting three goals in three games, plus a strike in the Carling Knockout.

    This striking duo is a coach’s dream, offering tactical flexibility as they prepare for African competitions. With both players in formidable form, they pose a significant threat to AmaZulu's defense.

  • Veli Mothwa of AmaZulu FCBackpagepix

    AmaZulu’s Struggles

    Few could have predicted that AmaZulu would find themselves languishing at the bottom of the PSL standings. With no points to their name - mirroring TS Galaxy’s dismal start - they face a daunting task against a formidable Pirates team.

    Scoring only two goals in three league matches, Usuthu has been let down by goalkeeper Veli Mothwa, whose recent poor performances have cost him his place in the Bafana Bafana squad.

    With the looming risk of losing his position to Olwethu Mzimela and Richard Ofori at Usuthu, the pressure is on. As the stage is set for this thrilling encounter, both teams have everything to play for. Will AmaZulu rise from the ashes, or will Pirates continue their relentless pursuit of glory?

  • Relebohile Mofokeng, Jose Riveiro, Orlando Pirates, October 2024Backpagepix

    Dive depper

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