Sunrise FC head coach Petrus Nangombe has boldly claimed that his team posseses the capabilities to overcome Dolam-based outfit Orlando Pirates in their eagerly-awaited round of 32 clash in the NFA PstBet Cup this weekend.
The two teams are set to clash tomorrow at Grootfontein’s Omulunga Stadium, with the match scheduled to kick off at 14h00. Nangombe, preparing his squad for a daunting encounter against the Katutura giants, spoke of their journey to this stage, pointing out that their presence in the last-32 was no stroke of luck.
They had demonstrated their capability by overcoming some of the strongest opponents in the first and second divisions.
Acknowledging the strength of their opponent, Nangombe expressed confidence in his team’s ability to cause an upset against the now-relegated Orlando Pirates. “I am fully aware of the formidable opponent we are up against, and we respect their history. However, we’ve prepared meticulously, earned our spot in the last-32, and I firmly believe we can upset Orlando Pirates,” he said.
Meanwhile, James Britz, the head coach of Orlando Pirates, acknowledged the challenge posed by facing a second division team. He stressed the importance of preparation, noting the heightened motivation of lower-division teams when pitted against premier league sides.
“No football game is easy; it all comes down to preparation. Facing a lower-division team can be tricky, as they are highly-motivated to prove themselves. However, we are equally motivated for this encounter,” Britz affirmed.
Action will be played at two venues this weekend, namely Unam Stadium and Omulunga Stadium. In the capital, Unam Stadium will see games starting at 12h00, featuring a clash between Swakopmund FC and defending champions Civics.
Following that, coastal outfit Eleven Arrows will lock horns with 2022 NFA Cup runner-ups Mighty Gunners at 14h00. Action will continue at 16h00 when Chula Chula face off against Blue Waters in what promises to be a riveting match.
Meanwhile, at Omulunga Stadium, proceedings kick off at 10h00 with a showdown between Unam and LK United, followed by Oryza Savita FC battling it out against Gerros Uri-khob FA at 12h00.
Later in the day, Further Fighters will go head-to-head with Okakarara Young Warriors at 16h00, concluding with a match between Air Masters FC and Life Fighters at 18h00. -mkambukwe@nepc.com.na-