I’m starting to be nervous about Mamelodi Sundowns

Guys (Mamelodi Sundowns Supporters) I’m starting to feel butterflies on my stomach seriously. I’m afraid of what will happen if we don’t even get one trophy this season.

My colleagues, friends and people general who knows me I’m a Dawana are starting to laugh at me and said: 'nakulonyaka asitholi niks' (even this year we are getting nothing) even though we have the cream of stars kanti kahle hle what wrong with our team?

I don’t buy that saying of Teko Modise is allergic on trophies. Next year we will also buy too many players as usual but our cabinet is full of dust it’s very painfully.

My heart sore few days ago of what Katlego Mphela says on Kick Off magazine about player power and what they used to do if they don’t want the coach all of that is adding on our trophilles seasons.

I call that a cheating because month-end they get their salaries and life goes on for them whereas we are crying. I hope Mr. Partice Motsepe can appoint an investigator to inquiry about that because I still believe some cheaters are still remaining behind.

My plea to Mr. Pitso Mosimane is to please wipe out our tears this season and stop your favouritism for the sake of die-hard supporters like me.

KaBoYellow today, tomorrow and forever.

By Muzi Kunene

Twitter: @diskioff [www.twitter.com/diskioff]

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What's wrong with Orlando Pirates strikers?

Orlando Pirates strikers have been firing blanks in the past weeks. In the previous four games, Pirates only managed to score one goal from the midfielder Khethowakhe Masuku.

The strikers have been firing blanks due to an ineffective and predictable lone striker tactic deployed by Pirates interim coach Eric Tinkler.

Pirates have bolstered its striking force by acquiring the service of Lehlohonolo Majoro. Now the team has 7 strikers which are:  Lennox Bacela, Lehlohonolo Majoro, Thamsanqa Gabuza, Ndumiso Mabena, Collins Mbesuma, Helder Pelembe and Kermit Erasmus to lead the Pirates striking force.

Gabuza, Bacela, Mabena and Mbesuma have fallen out of favour with the technical team whilst Majoro, Erasmus and Pelembe will compete for the striking role. However, if Tinkler continues with his ineffective and outdated lone striker tactic, only one striker will make it in the starting eleven out of the 7 which is a waste of strikers.

Pirates have enough depth in the striking force to replace the lone striker tactic by twin striker formation or even playing traditional system of 3 strikers. If I were Eric Tinkler, I would play 3 strikers Majoro, Erasmus and Pelembe to score avalanches of goals as the teams is currently number 10 in terms of scoring.

By Owen Mundalamo

Premier Socecr League now owns exclusive copyright for betting on its fixtures

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) Chairman, Dr Irvin Khoza, has today announced that the PSL now owns copyright for betting on its fixtures.

This is an important milestone since the repositioning of the PSL into a fully professional league in 1996. In the eighteen years, the PSL has managed to secure the copyright of its match content, the only league with these rights in the world. Only FIFA has copyright of its match content.

The PSL pay equal monthly grants to its affiliate club. This has significantly improved the competitiveness of the clubs in the PSL to the extent that no one club has managed to dominate the league and cup competitions.

Dr Khoza said, “I am pleased that we have achieved yet another feat in the eighteen years of our professional existence. We are in the content business. The ownership and protection of our content is therefore invaluable. It helps us secure our income streams at a time when there is an explosion in the media and communications landscape that could easily undermine our rights”.

“I would like to thank the Chairman of Kaizer Chiefs, my fellow PSL Executive Committee member and the Chairman of the Finance Committee, Mr Motaung, for his steadfast commitment. We set out at the beginning to build a foundation of a sustainable league that would outlive its founders. His wisdom and recognition of the added responsibility market leaders have to sustain an industry is laudable.

The case was presented to the South Gauteng High Court by Advocate Cedric Puckrin. In his judgment, the honourable Judge Kgomo commended the PSL for the professional presentation and witnesses. This has been a long journey. The first letter registering the PSL’s displeasure on the matter was sent to Gidani, the lottery operator at the time, in 2007.

Roger Wakefield of law firm Werkmans, the lead attorney on this case, said, “I am absolutely thrilled on the result which we always knew was the correct one. The PSL has won and justice has been done.”

Dr Khoza expressed his gratitude to all the PSL Club Chairmen for their foresight and for providing an open budget enabling the PSL to fight this good fight, to the attorneys and to Peter Mancer of Diversity Management. “The logistics of this case ran on Peter’s undeterred energy. He briefed the attorneys, attended meetings and travelled around the world as our case was being built. Thank you Squire”, concluded Dr Khoza.

Why are our football experts silent on addressing the real issues?

An interesting point made by Themba 'Pro' Mnini in his email refers to the fact that those who display their football knowledge as 'experts' on TV, radio and print media, are silent when it comes to topics that would really educate coaches and supporters.

Briefly, his view about the panels of experts: 'They are the masters of confusing talking - 'final-third', 'transition', 'pressing-high', 'decision-making', 'tactical-foul', 'playing between the lines' and so on but they say nothing about our game philosophy, style of play, the role of skilful and creative players, rigid coaching and the negative of long-ball predictable mentality, the need to introduce much younger players in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), etc.

These are the aspects that can be more relevant to improving our football and also educate coaches. Are the 'experts' hired only to promote mediocrity? Of all of them I find Zane Moosa and Isaac ‘Shakes’ Kungwane to be more honest and yet these two don't claim they have 'superior knowledge'. I could be that the rest have nothing to say because they know too little or nothing.

I challenge them to start giving us interesting information and pure football knowledge, just to prove me wrong'.

What's your opinion?

By Ted Dumitru

CAF Champions League: Kaizer Chiefs vs Liga Desportiva Muçulmana de Maputo

Kaizer Chiefs, the reigning Absa Premiership champions, will host Liga Desportiva Muçulmana de Maputo from Mozambique in the CAF Champions League at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday night. Kick-off is at 19h00.

“It is the same as every home game in the tournaments that have two legs. You are looking for a solid result from your home leg and not to concede a goal and score as many goals as you can to take with you in defending in the second leg. The people are always good for the Club in Durban and Moses Mabhida Stadium is very nice and I think the players are quite comfortable to play there. We are looking ok on the players’ front; George Lebese picked up a knock that we are monitoring. This game is part of a bigger picture. The schedule is hectic and everybody available for selection is good. We also had a few training sessions this week which has been good for our preparations. We know little about the opponents Liga Desportiva Muçulmana de Maputo that has no effect to do our preparations against them,” said Stuart Baxter.

“The mood is very high in the camp. We played a draw away from home which was not desired in terms of giving the other teams some confidence when they come up against us. It is very important to win at home. We just want to win all our games so that Kaizer Chiefs can progress further into ‘Living The African Dream’. Durban has been a good host for us; we always do well at Moses Mabhida. We share good memories in Durban. We are expecting a good turnout on Saturday. We hope the supporters will do as usual and come in their numbers to be part of the African Dream,” said Chiefs Skipper Itumeleng Khune.

“This is part of 'Living the African Dream', it is a huge weekend in Durban and we are very excited to be taking our game to KwaZulu Natal once again. What a wonderful province KwaZulu Natal is to be part of. We are very excited to get an opportunity to engage with the Durban fan base as well as the travelling supporters. Moses Mabhida Stadium has proven to be another of our ‘home away from home’ venues. We have good memories at the stadium having won trophies before at the same venue and most recently we lifted the 2013 Nedbank Cup there. Our Supporters Club and KC Retail Store will be operating in the stadium precinct where the supporters will be able to purchase their authentic merchandise and apply and renew their Club Memberships. The Amakhosi will also be handing out the free KC Mobile Starter Packs, we will RICA you which will enable the users to have exclusive access to Club content and stand a chance to win prizes in the monthly draw. On 28th of February the Amakhosi will be at Mega City Umlazi and as always we will be accompanied by our main sponsor Vodacom during all the activities,” commented Jessica Motaung.

The tickets are available at Computicket and Shoprite/Checkers outlets nationwide at a cost of R60 for the lower tier, East and West sides and R50 for the lower tier North and South sides. The disabled seating is available on Level 5 in the designated disabled blocks at a cost of R50. Hospitality tickets are booked via Book Now:  031 582 8238 and hospitalitysales@mmsdurban.co.za

Nike Football Unveils 2014 Korea National Team Kit

Nike unveiled the Korea national team kit that will be worn in Brasil this summer.

Korea national team player Myung-Won Seo unveiled the kit at Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul.

Combining Nike’s finest performance innovations with powerful national symbols, the new home kit for Korea’s national football team captures their renowned tenacity and spirit on the field, and prepares them to compete in Brasil this summer.

“In addition to providing the best in performance innovation and the ultimate in cooling, our aim is to also celebrate the spirit and pride of each country,” said Martin Lotti, Creative Director for Nike Football.

Nike’s design team achieved this by using the Taegeuk, the yin and yang circle symbol found at the center of the Korean flag, to reflect the balanced and harmonious team spirit of the Korean national team.

The vibrant red jersey shows the interlocking shapes of the Taegeuk at the top of each sleeve in blue. These shapes give the jersey a modern appearance and match the contours of the players’ bodies.

“The Korean shirt is filled with the aspirations of a nation,” said Korean National Team midfielder SungYueng Ki. “This year in Brasil, with a shirt that expresses the balance of the yin and yang, we will look to reach new heights as a team on  football's biggest stage." 

The design team also wanted to give Korea a unique collar inspired by classic Korean attire, resulting in the red collar with prominent blue piping.

Inside the back of the neck, a pennant tab features a Tuhon symbol from traditional Korean calligraphy that translates as "fighting spirit," representing the essential quality of Korean football.

ULTIMATE IN COOLING AND COMFORT

The kit aids performance by helping regulate player body temperature over the course of a match. By using a combination of Nike Dri-FIT technology, “burnout” mesh and laser-cut ventilation holes, designers are able to localize cooling where players need it most.

Nike Dri-FIT technology pulls moisture away from the skin to the outside of the garment where it evaporates more quickly. Laser-cut ventilation holes and engineered mesh in key areas where heat is generated allow for increased breathability and airflow across the skin. 

“By managing sweat and keeping the body cooler longer, players feel more comfortable, sweat less, and perform better,” said Lotti.  

In addition, to help keep players cool, the kit is made with a new dual-knit fabrication that incorporates cotton and recycled polyester for the best in moisture wicking properties, while adding a softer feel and more flattering shape.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

In line with Nike’s commitment to superior performance with lower environmental impact, the shirt, short -- and for the first time in a Korea national team kit, the socks -- all feature fabric made from recycled plastic bottles (100 percent recycled polyester in the shorts, 96 percent recycled polyester in the shirt and 78 percent in the socks). Each kit is made using an average of 18 recycled plastic bottles. Since 2010, Nike has diverted almost two billion bottles from landfills, enough to cover more than 2,800 full-sized football pitches.

“Incorporating environmental sustainability is a key part of the design and development process for us,” said Lotti. “Our aim is to create a kit that performs for players and is good to the planet.”

PERFECT FIT

Designers utilized three-dimensional body scans of elite footballers to collect data on the physique of today’s players and identify an updated fit — improving comfort and allowing the body to move more naturally within the kit.

The new royal blue shorts have a slimmer fit and are more tailored to the body, with a cut specifically designed to aid movement and comfort. The center back of the shorts features Nike’s signature laser vents to aid in cooling and allow for moisture management.

While looking at every element of the modern football kit, Nike designers even paid special attention to the kits’ socks. The new home socks are red.

Combining athlete insight and research with new materials and fabrications, the Nike Match Fit sock for 2014 features a sleeker fit specific to football. Strategically cushioned zones provide comfort and protection at the big toe and anklebones where the majority of impact occurs, while arch support locks down the foot to help prevent slipping. Material was also eliminated to enhance touch and decrease bulk, and flex grooves were added to the ankle and the top of the foot to prevent any bunching.

NIKE PRO BASELAYER

The new Nike Pro baselayer is the lightest ever from Nike and features increased venting and breathability. Players have a variety of Nike Pro baselayer styles to choose from.  These are designed for the varying temperatures and conditions athletes will encounter in Brasil, which are expected to vary from high heat during mid-day matches, to much colder temperatures in the southern match locations during evening games. 

Nike has redesigned its baselayer short for 2014 taking insights directly from some of the best players in the world.

“When we asked players to talk about the kind of protection they need during a match, they showed us scars and abrasions on their upper-back hip area from sliding,” recalled Lotti.  “Several players showed us these same injuries so we set-out to add more protection, while balancing the need for lightweight and breathability.”

The result is the Nike Pro Combat Ultralight Slider Short. Featuring increased and adjusted abrasion protection zones to match the athlete’s sliding pattern, the short is also 20 percent lighter than previous versions and made with 87 percent recycled polyester. Weight was eliminated through the addition of mesh for increased breathability and cooling where the athlete generates heat.

The Korea kit will be available in Nike stores and on www.nike.com from March 5.

CAF Confederation Cup: SuperSport United vs AFC Leopards

SuperSport United welcome Kenyan side, AFC Leopards in the first round of the CAF Confederation Cup on Saturday evening at the Lucas Moripe stadium. Kick-off is set for 20h15.

Matsatsantsa overcame Botswana side Gaborone United 3-0 on aggregate in their previous CAF Confederation Cup encounter and will look to replicate that performance in the first round match-up against a formidable Leopards side that went passed Ethiopian outfit, Defense SC 4-1 on aggregate.

Ingwe are currently eleventh in the Kenyan Premier League table going into the third round of fixtures.

Cavin Johnson's side will be boosted with the timely return of key defenders, Thabo September and Sibusiso Khumalo who both missed the trip to Gaborone due to injury.

Cavin Johnson: "The personality is when you are playing at home (Lucas Moripe Stadium), that's when we need to be at our very best. It's a big stage for us and we have to come to the party and showcase what we can do. Leopards is a formidable side and are well known for producing some of Kenya's best talent. We are well aware of what they can do and we have planned accordingly for them. This stage is where we will be tested-you can either play or you can't.  Some of the players have to prove that they have got that character to be able to play against the best in Africa. We want to progress to the next stage and have made our intentions very clear to everyone."

Bevan Fransman: "We are ready for this encounter and have prepared ourselves well to be here. All we need is to ensure that we get a favorable result on Saturday night and ensure that we have something to play for when we travel to Kenya. We did well in our last game and we have every intention to carry on with that same mindset."

adidas launch the world's first knitted football boot

Every footballer dreams of a boot that combines the comfort and responsiveness of playing barefoot with the protection of a traditional design. Today adidas launch their latest step towards that dream with the launch of the adidas Samba primeknit.

The limited edition boot (available from Monday March 17^th) is the first football boot to have an upper that is knitted from heel-to-toe, providing a bespoke second-skin fit that retains the strength of a conventional boot.

The introduction of primeknit marks the latest chapter in a rich history of revolutionary adidas football products and further cements primeknit as one of the key technologies at the heart of adidas innovation.

New levels of flexibility and comfort are provided by the one-piece knitted upper of the boot and the yarns used to construct primeknit provide stability and strength equal to conventional boots. Each yarn receives a high precision coating that guarantees water resistance even in the most challenging conditions.

The advanced production techniques used to make primeknit also allow for the one-layer upper to be constructed with zones catering to various performance needs, ensuring that the adidas Samba primeknit caters to all aspects of the game.

The design's one-piece upper is constructed without any wastage of material; making the primeknit adidas' most sustainable football boot and the start of a brand new revolution in adidas football footwear.

Markus Baumann, Senior VP for Global Football at adidas commented on the launch of the new adidas Samba primeknit, "Every adidas product is developed with the player in mind and in particular, the needs of the player. By producing the world's first knitted football boot we have provided a brand new solution to the search for higher levels of comfort and flexibility."

"primeknit is a further demonstration of our commitment to driving relentless innovation in football and is designed to allow for a bespoke fit for each player, making performance more intuitive and responsive than ever before. primeknit is a technology that is right at the heart of adidas innovation and we're excited about introducing this development into football."

The adidas Samba primeknit is available from Monday March 17^th for purchase in selected adidas retail outlets, associated stockists and viawww.adidas.com/football. Join the adidas football conversation atwww.facebook.com/adidasfootball or on Twitter: @adidasfootball #allin or nothing.

Draw sets up exciting Nedbank Cup Last 16 fixtures

The Nedbank Cup round of 16 draw held today has intensified the excitement and suspense as the remaining top flight clubs wearily eye their lower division contenders for the coveted R 7-million top prize.

The Last 16 draw follows the thrills of the first round fixtures which ended last night, a number of top teams were given scares by lower league opposition.

Third-tier Mbombela United were edged 4-3 by Moroka Swallows and National First Division side Witbank Spurs produced the surprise of the round when they defeated top-flight Free State Stars 1-0 in Phuthaditjhaba.

Kaizer Chiefs needed an extra-time goal to advance against Black Leopards, while Orlando Pirates were involved in a six-goal thriller with Thanda Royal Zulu that was eventually won 3-1 on penalties by The Buccaneers.

There were also some big wins though, African Warriors defeated Mainstay United from the Northern Cape 8-3, the most goals seen in a Last 32 match this year, and Bloemfontein Celtic beat University of Stellenbosch 8-0, which was the largest margin of victory.

The Nedbank Cup continues to benefit schools around the country.  For the 2014 season, the bank is donating R10 000 per goal scored towards the building of a R1 million multi-purpose sport court for a school as part of the Goals4Goals campaign in partnership with The Sports Trust.

With 55 goals netted in the first round, players and teams are not only increasing their chances of progressing while thrilling the fans; but they are also contributing to sport development.

The top goal scorer in the round of 32, Bloemfontein Celtic’s Musa Nyatama, earns himself

R 10 000 and an additional R 10 000 in soccer kit and training equipment for a school of his choice anywhere in the country. A further R1 million will be used for soccer kit and training equipment to 100 schools across the country as part of the Nedbank sport development programme.

“Once again, the Nedbank Cup is testimony that no matter who or what the opposition is; guts, determination, and being part of the right team can help you achieve the seemingly impossible. As a bank for all; Nedbank will continue to partner and empower communities, current and future stars with the resources and skills they require to make goals happen.” Said Sydney Mbhele; Divisional Executive for Group Marketing at Nedbank.

PSL CEO, Brand de Villiers said: “The round of last 32 has set the bar very high this year and I hope that the Nedbank Cup Last 16s will continue on that path. We look forward to more exciting football and a plethora of goals.”

Nedbank Cup Last 16 Draw:

Kaizer Chiefs vs FC Buffalo

AmaZulu vs Bidvest Wits

Moroka Swallows vs SuperSport United

Bloemfontein Celtic vs Witbank Spurs

Platinum Stars vs Maritzburg United

African Warriors vs Milano United

Golden Arrows vs Mamelodi Sundowns

Santos vs Orlando Pirates

adidas supports local grassroots football programme

Today, adidas South Africa helped support the official launch of the Football4All initiative – a grassroots football programme developed by a number of former South African international football players who will contribute in coaching novice primary school children.

“The lack of ‘development’ in local football has been a major talking point in recent months and the launch of the Football4All project couldn’t come at a better time”, says George Dearnaley, former Bafana striker and Director of Football4All. “We are not looking at developing elite athletes, we aim only to teach the proper basics, using former international players as coaches, providing a real service to local football”, he continued.

Football4All is open to boys and girls – aimed at promoting a healthy and active lifestyle amongst primary school children, particularly in the Mitchells Plain area, before taking on the Khayelitsha cluster and will eventually move north to Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.

Adrian de Souza, Sports Marketing Team Manager of adidas South Africa: “We have agreed to a 3 year technical sponsorship deal with Football4All, providing all kit and equipment for the duration of the programme and look forward to this project growing even further”.

Other former South African international football players involved in the programme include Gerald Stober, Andrew Tucker, Duncan Crowie, Brian Baloyi, Desiree Elis, and David Nyathi some of whom were present to coach at the launch. Other names are set to join the programme as it grows in strength.

Vladimir Vermezovic meets the Players

Orlando Pirates Chairman Dr Irvin Khoza has introduced new Head Coach Vladimir Vermezovic to the players this morning.

Speaking at the Club’s training ground Rand Stadium, Dr Khoza said: “It is a very important day for us today as we welcome our new coach. We introduced him (VV) to the technical team yesterday, and today it’s the turn of the players.”

He added: “The Coach has a great responsibility on his shoulders but we are confident in his ability.”

The Chairman went on to reveal that current Caretaker Coach Eric Tinkler would be in charge of the match against Free State Stars on Saturday as Vermezovic is still awaiting his work permit.

“He (Vermezovic) will be attending the match over the weekend as an observer with Eric (Tinkler) still in charge of the team. He is still awaiting his paperwork, which will hopefully clear this week, meaning that he will officially start work next week.”

Meanwhile, Vermezovic said he was looking forward to work with his new players.

“I met the players today, some of them I know from before (while I was at Chiefs) and there are a few new faces that I will be getting to know when I start officially,” said the 50-year old.

“I have a three year contract and have plans that we will be executing. We (the team) have been doing okay for now, it helps that the team won during the week, one could see that maybe the confidence was down from the previous results, but we have a good group that we can work with.

He added: “As the Chairman has already alluded to the fact that I will be observing the team this weekend and work closely with Eric (Tinkler) and Teboho (Moloi) to make sure that I am ready once my work permit is complete.

“I am happy to be here and look forward to the challenge ahead,” Vermezovic concluded.

Lehlohonolo Majoro introduced to new teammates

Lehlohonolo “Major” Majoro took part in his first training session as an Orlando Pirates player at Rand Stadium on Thursday morning.

Majoro who completed his move to the Mighty Buccaneers this week, joined his new teammates for a spirited workout ahead of Saturday's Absa Premiership League clash against Free State Stars.

Prior to his first training session, Majoro was presented in front of his new teammates by the Chairman Dr Irvin Khoza.

In his address, Dr Khoza said: “I am pleased to welcome Lehlohonolo Majoro to the club and I am confident that he will make a positive contribution to the squad we currently have.”

Speaking after his presentation, the 27-year old said: “I am pleased to have joined Orlando Pirates. This is a Club with a rich and proud history. I want to tell the supporters that I will don this jersey with pride and I look forward to making them happy in everything I do.

“I am thankful to the Chairman for taking the time out of his busy schedule to introduce me to my new teammates. I have a three year contract and in that time I want to achieve great things with the team,” he concluded.

Majoro will don the number 45 on his jersey for the remainder of the 2013/14 season.

MP Black Aces vs Moroka Swallows date confirmed

The Absa Premiership fixture between Mpumalanga Black Aces and Moroka Swallows has been rescheduled to Saturday, 15 March 2014.

The fixture was originally scheduled on 05 February 2014 at Kwanyamazana Stadium.

The venue will remain the same. Kickoff will now be at 15h30.

The League postponed the fixture due to insufficient lighting at the stadium.

How did Pirates settle the score with Sundowns?

On Tuesday night we witnessed the strongest and most dangerous kick of the dying horse to Mamelodi Sundowns.

Orlando Pirates was written off before the game due to lackadaisical, jaded and erratic performance in the league. Pirates approached the game as underdogs but with much improved game plan.

Pirates caretaker coach Eric Tinkler introduced a new central pair combination of captain Lucky Lekgwathi and Happy Jele. The new combination worked effectively due to good understanding. It was for the first time in many years to witness Pirates playing with balance defence both aerial and on the ground. Jele aerial ability made difference by challenging many of the aerial balls whilst Lekgwathi commanded the entire defence with distinction playing sweeping role without encroaching the territory of the hardworking Jele.

Thabo Matlaba and the less known Ntsikelelo Nyauza easily closed down Sundowns effective wing play of Elias Pelembe and Anthony Laffor who was sacrificed for Lebohang Mokoena in the second half after made very little impact. Nyauza never puts a foot wrong in the game with his well calculated tackles. Sundowns was forced to play from within because Nyauza and Matlaba close down their effective wing play.

Pirates dominated the engine room with Oupa Manyisa playing deep alongside Thandani Ntshumayelo to create more space for Mpho Makola with skilful Khethowakhe Masuku and tricky Sifiso Myeni completing the wings but the player who stole the show was my man of the match Makola who initiated and directed Pirates offensive moves with distinction.

Makola transitional movement coupled with movement on and off to the ball was exceptional. He demonstrated a rare ability of ball playing skills without losing focus and balance in the game. He was a livewire with array of mouth-watering and eye-pleasing skills. Sundowns never had any tactical plan to close him down due to his sizzling performance.

Manyisa did basics things in the game whilst Ntshumayelo had a good game but elapsing of concentration nearly affected his game after losing balls unnecessary at the danger zone but Lekgwathi calmed him down to have a decent game.

Myeni was a razor wire in the flesh of Sundowns defence with his blistering pace but his last ball was less impressive. Myeni head an improved game whilst Masuku had a decent first half but struggled to make an impact in the second half. Masuku needs to work hard on his defensive ability. He was not joining in defence when the team was under siege which put Nyauza under unnecessary pressure in the second half.

Helder Pelembe worked hard in the game but he was isolated upfront without adequate ball supply. Pirates dominated the engine room but didn’t create a lot of goalscoring opportunities for Pelembe. The lone striker tactic is limiting Pelembe’s striking ability.

Tactical discipline won Pirates the game however; the defence deserved more praise for solid performance with Meyiwa delivering an excellent and impressive performance but Makola stood the head and shoulders above the rest with first class performance.

By Owen Mundalamo

Win Ajax Cape Town v Polokwane City tickets

HERE’S your chance to watch Ajax Cape Town take on Polokwane City in an Absa Premiership clash on Friday night [28 February 2014] at 8pm at Athlone Stadium.

Ten lucky readers will each win two double tickets to the match.

To win simply answer: What was the final score when Ajax Cape Town played against Polokwane City at Peter Mokaba Stadium on the 22nd of August 2013?

Email the answer to diskioff@gmail.com - together with your full name, city and contact details with the subject "Ajax Competition".

Terms and conditions apply: Winners will be selected randomly. Winners are responsible for their own transport to and from Athlone Stadium. Winners must be 18 years or older.

SAFPU statement on the Lehlohonolo Majoro case

The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) have explained why former Kaizer Chiefs striker Lehlohonolo Majoro can play for Orlando Pirates as soon as possible.

Statement from the South African Football Players Union (SAFPU):

"As SAFPU we would like to put it on record and confirm that Lehlohonolo Majoro was free to join any club and play immediately, due to the fact that he was declared a free agent on Saturday, 22 February 2014. It is a fact that No player can be declared a free agent by mutual agreement between him and his previous club. Even if a club and player agree to terminate his agreement, does not entitle a player to be a free agent.

"It is only the Dispute Resolution Chamber of the National Soccer League ("DRC") which does have the powers to declare a player a free agent and only on receipt of such declaration, the player will be entitled to register outside the window period for any club of his choice. Therefore, it is irrelevant what any parties may agree, the DRC is the only body which may declare a player a free agent, in which instance the DRC duly did on 22 February 2014, after it fully heard argument from the SAFPU. Chiefs opted not to oppose the application for free agency.

"Majoro, is properly registered with the NSL, is entitled to play football immediately, without any club being at risk to be "DOCKED" points. A player is eligible to play for his club as long as his registration fully complies with all requirements for registration in terms of the NSL Rules. The fact that Majoro was issued a free agency declaration by the DRC, entitles him (with reference to Rule 28.4 of the NSL Rules), that he may be registered outside the window period.

"The statement made by Chiefs that Majoro did not have to go to the DRC to force an end to his contract and declare him a free agent, is INCORRECT AND MISCONCEIVED. The union on behalf of Majoro referred the matter to the DRC due to Chiefs' conduct and ill treatment of him as a professional player. The way Chiefs treated Majoro in the last few months, withholding his monthly salaries etc. left the player with no other choice other than to approach the DRC. Chiefs infringed on the fundamental rights of Majoro, as a Professional footballer. This needs to be reported to FIFA and FIFPRO, in order to ensure that the principle of contractual stability is complied with. All of this would not have happened, if Chiefs did in fact honour its agreement with Majoro.

"Despite the right of Majoro to be declared a free agent, Majoro furthermore also had the right to claim the balance of his agreement from Chiefs due to the fact that Chiefs' breached his contract. However the damages claim for moneys due and payable to Majoro and the claim for moneys due in terms of the balance of his agreement, was indeed settled by the parties. And furthermore, this settlement agreement in respect of these claims were in fact settled, SUBJECT TO THE CONDITION THAT MAJORO BEING DECLARED A FREE AGENT. In other words, if Majoro was not declared a free agent by the DRC, there would have been no agreement in respect of payment of any moneys.

"Therefore, the DRC, the only competent forum of the NSL, lawfully issued the free agency declaration for Majoro, which entitles him to play immediately for any club.

"We hope this sends a clear message to all clubs in South Africa. Honour the players' contract as expected and been prescribed by FIFA Statues; and further hope that a great young professional player now be allowed to proceed with his career, in the interest of football in South Africa."

Meet Jose Mourinho - adidas Football

Get the inside line from Jose Mourinho from adidas Gamedayplus. Unlock the UEFA Champions League and sign up to adidas Gamedayplus: http://a.did.as/18KWo7P

Jose Mourinho is on the hunt for his third UEFA Champions League trophy with his third team, something no one has achieved before. Ahead of Chelsea FC's game against FC Schalke 04 we spoke to the Blues' manager about what makes him tick, their performances to date and just how far the team can go this year. He also discusses their opposition, Galatasaray, who he knows well, and the challenge that playing in Turkey will present.

The former Real Madrid CF manager gives high praise to Azpilicueta and Oscar who he believes could be legends for the club in the future. He also talks about the current state of Chelsea FC as they fight to regain dominance in Europe.

adidas Gamedayplus is a mobile led second screen social platform which aggregates the best UEFA Champions League content from adidas football adidas players and clubs, journalists and super fans, and adds this to a user's existing Twitter feed. The season long interactive platform enables fans across the world to engage in "real-time" to enhance their tournament experience in a new and exciting way.

adidas is an official sponsor of the UEFA Champions league. Teams in the adidas family represented in this year's competition include FC Bayern Munchen, Chelsea FC, AC Milan, Real Madrid CF, AFC Ajax, Bayer Leverkusen, FC Basel 1893, FC Kobenhaven, FC Schalke 04 and Olympique de Marseille.

Team adidas players include Messi, Xavi, Alves, De Rossi, Bale, Robben, Van Persie, Ozil, Schweinsteiger, Lahm and Alonso.

Gamedayplus is the ultimate companion for the UEFA Champions League.

Pirates settled the score with Sundowns

Orlando Pirates managed to avenge Mamelodi Sundowns with similar score-line attained by The Brazilians at Orlando Stadium after beating them 1-0 at Loftus Stadium courtesy of a lone goal scored by the man of the match Khethowakhe Masuku.

Pirates caretaker coach Eric Tinkler was very satisfied with the tactical discipline demonstrated by his boys in the game.  He praised the defence excellent performance and heroic performance by goalkeeper Senzo Meyiwa which contributed to a second clean sheet in a row.

Tinkler was happy that the boys defended set pieces well with full concentration throughout the game. He attributed the victory to the hard work done in the morning of the game whilst strengthening the defence and rectifying silly mistakes which contributed in conceding soft goals from set piece against Thanda Royal Zulu over the weekend.

Tinkler was thrilled with tactical discipline and commitment demonstrated by the boys against Sundowns.

“This victory will lift the morale very high, we always knew we could get the positive results against them, it was just about turning that corner. We have been working hard at training. Players played according to the tactical instructions, there was great tactical discipline from everybody, and the work rate was phenomenal.”

On different note from the game, Tinkler said that Pirates has no space for superstars. Lehlohonolo Majoro has to work hard like any other players to be considered in the starting eleven.

“Majoro will be joining us at training as from this Wednesday, but like everybody else he has to prove himself and work extremely hard to get into the squad. In my opinion, and I know it is also the club’s opinion, there is no space for superstars here – everybody must put in the same amount of work, and he needs to do the same. If he does that he will play … it’s as simple as that.”

On the other hand, the stressed Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane attributed his defeat to losing of his key players such as Alje Schut, Khama Billiat, Katlego Mashego and Cuthbert Malajila.

The team missed the creative moves of Billiat, the aerial potential Schut during set piece against a vulnerable Pirates and composure coupled with goalscoring techniques of Mashego and Malajila.

“It is a very sad that we didn't have our players.  The Khama issue has cost us. We don't have another Khama, we don't have other players like him. When Mashego plays, when Schut plays, when Billiat plays we are a different team.”

Mosimane applauded Rodney Ramagalela for the fighting spirit and never say die attitude despite playing as alone striker without adequate ball supply and necessary support. He was happy with the performance of Ramagalela who gave Pirates defence tough times with his non-stop runs and defence penetration skills.

The victory against Sundowns moved Pirates to 6th in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) log with 27 points whilst Sundowns is still at the second spot but trailing Kaizer Chiefs by 9 points with a game in hand.

By Owen Mundalamo

Nike Unveils South African National Football Team Kit For 2014

Nike today revealed the South African national team kit that Bafana Bafana will take to the pitch with, in their international friendly against Brasil on March 5 in Johannesburg.

The new limited edition away kit features a simplistic, yet classic design.  The all-white jersey boasts the SAFA logo and Protea emblem on either side of the chest, while the South African flag sits proudly on the outer back of the neck.  White shorts and socks complete the look.

The jersey is made with Nike Dri-FIT technology which aids performance by helping to regulate player body temperature over the course of a match, while pulling moisture away from the skin to the outside of the garment where it evaporates more quickly.

The new kit is exclusively available to the South African Football Association’s (SAFA) national team structures until December 2014.  Nike and SAFA will unveil the 2015-2016 kit in November 2014, with an assortment of supporter-wear available from early January 2015.