Alex Lafitte braced for biggest game in South Africa

In just five months since arriving at the Bloemfontein-based club, the Frenchman has reached a major cup final as they prepare for the Carling Knockout decider in Polokwane on Saturday.

Now possibly less than 120 minutes from lifting the trophy, Lafitte says this would be the best way to honour the club after they took a chance of him as a 28-year-old coach.

"For me, I'm very excited and very happy to play this final, but honestly I'm focussed and concentrated on helping the club and team to win the trophy," said Lafitte.

"But it is a very important moment for me and for the team and club, and for that I want to respect Marumo Gallants on Saturday and I hope we will win the trophy."

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In Pirates, Lafitte knows he’s got his work cut out for him against a club that has become the undisputed domestic cup kings of the modern era, having already won a trophy this season. 

"Yeah, it's a big challenge but you know when you are in the final, and if you want to win the cup, you need to beat all the big teams," he added.

"We have eliminated Stellenbosch, Golden Arrows, [Mamelodi] Sundowns, so it's normal if you want to win the cup then we need to beat all teams.

"It's a big challenge against Pirates, who are a very good team and very important in the country and in Africa."