Pirates up against Usuthu in Nedbank Cup quarters

Orlando Pirates continue their journey of defending the Nedbank Cup title when they take on AmaZulu at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday evening in a quarterfinal clash. Kick-off is at 6pm CAT.

CURRENT FORM

Despite not having the best form in the league, AmaZulu has had a decent cup run, beating Sekhukhune United 2-0 convincingly in the Round of 16. The last fixture they played was in the DStv Premiership where they beat Cape Town City 1-0 away.

As for Orlando Pirates, the Soweto team is coming off the back of an emphatic 7-1 win over Golden Arrows in the league and they beat second-tier side Hungry Lions 4-0 in the Round of 16 in the Nedbank Cup.

It should be an interesting match-up as AmaZulu made it to the quarters for the first time in 11 years and will be looking to continue their cup run.

WHAT WAS SAID

AmaZulu’s Ben Motshwari is looking forward to playing against his former club and the fact that his team has an opportunity to win their first trophy in 32 years.

“I feel motivated playing against the big team,” he said.

“You don't need motivation, the game on its own, it's a motivation. But for me, I'm focused on playing the match and helping my team win.”

Pirates coach Jose Riveiro is pinning his hopes on in-form Tshegofatso Mabasa to shine once again in this next important match.

“He is performing at a very good level and he is helping us to play better and to only score goals. Hopefully, he continues in the same space and in the same shape because it is nice to see a player of his talent performing at this level,” he said.

“AmaZulu are a team that we respect a lot. They have experienced players who have proved many times that they are excellent players with a good competitive level.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Veli Mothwa,