As Kaizer Chiefs gear up for a do-or-die Nedbank Cup final clash against Orlando Pirates this Saturday at Moses Mabhida Stadium, defender Inácio Miguel has called for composure and concentration, urging his teammates to learn from recent mistakes and seize the moment.
While many of his fellow players are new to the big stage, the Angolan international brings prior cup final experience and has taken it upon himself to be a calming influence in the dressing room.
“I’ve been fortunate to play in cup finals before, so I understand the pressure. I try to keep emotions in check and help my teammates stay free and focused,” Miguel said.
The seasoned centre-back believes that last weekend’s league defeat to Pirates could work in Chiefs’ favour. “It hurt to lose, but we’ve seen where we came up short. There are no second chances in a final, and we’re determined not to repeat the same mistakes,” he stated.
Miguel also warned against overconfidence from Pirates. “They might think they have the upper hand, but we’re mentally and physically prepared. Previous results don’t count — both games were close, and we believe we can win this one.”
Chiefs have gone a decade without lifting major silverware, but Miguel insists the team is only focused on the present. “We know what this means to our fans, but we can’t live in the past. We have a job to do now, and that’s to bring the cup home.”
Saturday’s clash is more than just a derby — it’s a shot at history, redemption, and pride for a club desperate to restore its former glory.
