Orlando Pirates captain, Tapelo Xoki, has dismissed the notion that being paired against a lower division side in the Nedbank Cup last-16 round guarantees an easy passage to the next round of the competition.
Despite their impressive 6-0 victory over SAFA Regional League side Crystal Lake FC in the first round, Xoki believes that there is no room for complacency.
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Speaking to the media following the draw, Xoki highlighted the unpredictability of the tournament, citing the shocking elimination of Kaizer Chiefs by lower division side Milford FC.
He emphasised that teams from lower divisions are competitive and deserve respect. Xoki stated, “You can’t say we are lucky because these teams from lower divisions are in this tournament to win it, just like anyone else. We treat every game the same.”
While the draw against Motsepe Foundation Championship side Hungry Lions FC may be perceived as a lucky draw by many, Xoki remains focused on the task at hand. He mentioned that the team’s only preference was a home draw, which they fortunately received.
However, before facing Hungry Lions in the Nedbank Cup, Orlando Pirates have some challenging league fixtures ahead of them. They will travel to Limpopo to face Polokwane City at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.
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This will be followed by a match against Cape Town Spurs on 6 March, before the highly anticipated Soweto derby against Kaizer Chiefs three days later.
Xoki’s comments serve as a reminder that in football, there are no guarantees. Regardless of the opposition’s division, every match requires the same level of preparation, respect, and determination.
Orlando Pirates will approach their upcoming fixtures with the same focus and commitment that has made them defending champions of the Ke Yona Cup.
