The man under whom Kaizer Chiefs finished the 2023/24 season, Cavin Johnson, has shared his prediction for the much-anticipated Nedbank Cup final against rivals Orlando Pirates.
The sold-out affair will take place at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday at 15:30.
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Johnson, who was replaced by Nasreddine Nabi at the helm, believes both clubs have an equal chance of laying their hands on the trophy, for various reasons.
"I foresee a big draw," says the man who has also coached the likes of Platinum Stars and SuperSport United, pointing out there are positives and negatives for both sides.
"Pirates have already faced Chiefs twice this season and have won both matches. As they approach the final, which is incredibly challenging, Chiefs have not won [a trophy] in 10 years, so they will come out strong.
"On the other hand, Pirates are saying goodbye to Jose Riveiro, as this will be his last cup game. He lost in the semi-finals of the [CAF] Champions League, where he should have been in the final.
"Riveiro will undoubtedly put forth every effort, and the club will ensure he receives a fitting farewell. In the last derby against Chiefs, the Pirates players gave 150% with their performance.
"On the flip side, Chiefs are looking to bounce back. They haven’t won a final in the last decade. Now that they’re in a final, it might give them the push they need. Their DDC [DStv Diski Challenge] team recently won the DDC cup for the first time in 10 years," says Johnson.
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The 66-year-old says far as Amaskhosi are concerned, the key question is who Nabi will select in his starting XI.
"That will be significant for Chiefs, the personality he chooses to field in the game.
"It ultimately comes down to who wants it more on Saturday. My prediction is a draw, which will go to penalties, and it will depend on who can kick the best penalties.
"Both teams cannot afford to let this slip, making it an exciting final."