Having lost 2-1 to Orlando Pirates this past weekend, Kaizer Chiefs will look to improve their lineup when they face their old rivals this Saturday in the Nedbank Cup final.
The two Soweto giants clash for the second consecutive weekend on Saturday afternoon at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. This past weekend, Amakhosi sacrificed a few players for the final while the Buccaneers went all out in the league encounter.
Having last won silverware in 2015, Kaizer Chiefs are desperate for a trophy and the Nedbank Cup gives them one last opportunity to save their disastrous season under Nasreddine Nabi.
How can Kaizer Chiefs lineup against Orlando Pirates in the final?
Goalkeeper: Bruce Bvuma
Bvuma was at fault for Pirates’ winning goal; however, in a game of this magnitude, Amakhosi can’t afford to replace their keeper in the final. The 30-year-old will need to produce a Man of the Match performance if Kaizer Chiefs are to win the Nedbank Cup final.
Defenders: Dillan Solomons, ZItha Kwinika, Inacio Miguel and Edmilson Dove
With Miguel returning to the bench this past weekend, it was evident that the Angolan international was being protected for the final. He was one yellow card from suspension, hence Nabi opted to start with Kwinika and Dove at centre back.
This coming weekend, Kwinika is likely to partner with Miguel at centre-back, with Dove moving on the left.
Kaizer Chiefs desperate to win the Nedbank Cup
Midfielders: Edson Castillo, Thabo Cele, Sibongiseni Mthethwa
Yusuf Maart has struggled against Pirates and should be benched for Cele. Last weekend’s match needed someone like Ox to protect the back four. If Cele, Castillo and Ox operate in the midfield, they will make life difficult for Pirates.
Forwards: Gaston Sirino, Makabi Lilepo and Wandile Duba
Lilepo has been scoring goals for Kaizer Chiefs and could be instrumental if the club ends up lifting the Nedbank Cup. Another player who has been in fine form lately and him returning to the team for the final will give them the extra pace upfront needed to unlock the Bucs’ defence.
Sirino’s passes, experience and ability to read play could be a factor.
Who will win the Nedbank Cup?
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