Bandile Shandu’s Orlando Pirates will go up against newly promoted Magesi FC in the round of 16 of the Carling Knockout FILE - Bandile Shandu’s Orlando Pirates will go up against newly promoted Magesi FC in the round of 16 of the Carling Knockout. Photo: Phando Jikelo/Independent Newspapers
Orlando Pirates star Bandile Shandu believes the Soweto giants have been handed a favourable draw against Magesi FC in the Carling Knockout as they will have home-ground advantage.
Speaking to the media after the draw on Wednesday, Shandu said they respect Magesi, but added that the draw was favourable for the Buccaneers because they will be playing at Orlando Stadium.
"Favourable draw for us because we are at home, we respect each and every team we come across and Magesi is no exception.
“I think the boost for us is that we're playing at home, we want to make Orlando Stadium a stadium that's hard to play in, especially if you are playing against Orlando Pirates, so it's a very favourable draw for us," Shandu said.
The Carling Knockout saw major upsets last season as the “big three” in Kaizer Chiefs, Mamelodi Sundowns and Pirates were knocked-out early in competition, paving the way Stellenbosch FC to claim a maiden cup title after they beat TS Galaxy at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
Shandu, however, believes the Sea Robbers have laid a solid enough foundation this season to avoid a repeat of what happened the same competition last term.
“I think we have set the foundation for ourselves in terms of the MTN 8 and we have had a great start to the season in the Betway Premiership.
“So I think it’s just building from that and carrying on working as a team fighting one another and it’s showing on the pitch as well,” Shandu said.
The Soweto giants made history last Saturday after becoming the first team to win the MTN 8 three times in a row, and will look continue their cup dominance when they start their Carling Knock-out campaign against Magesi.
IOL Sport