Orlando Pirates captain confident rookies can handle Soweto Derby pressure

The Buccaneers host arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Saturday in a Betway Premiership clash that sold out within six hours of tickets going on sale.

With anticipation building, Sibisi was asked whether preparing the less experienced players for the occasion had been a challenge. 

The Pirates defender expressed satisfaction with how the youngsters were absorbing information as they prepare for one of South African football’s biggest games.

"Yeah, look, I think these boys have showcased glimpses of what they are capable of. As young as they are, I think if you're good enough, you are old enough to be on that pitch, and for me, my job has been quite easy, you know," said Sibisi.

READ: At ease and enjoying the moment, Da Cruz relishes first Soweto Derby experience

"These boys listen; whenever you give guidance, they tend to take it. I think the proof is in the pudding to say, look at the performances they have given. Everyone whom we have called up as a team has delivered for the club, so there is a lot to come."

"There are still others who haven't gotten a chance, but that speaks to the competition within the club. We are really looking forward to the game on Saturday."

 Despite an unbeaten run in the league so far after eight matches, Pirates’ biggest challenge has been the physical part of the game. 

Sibisi addressed this. 

"Look, for us, I think physicality isn't a problem if it's fair, but sometimes it's not, and why should we be judged on that as a club? For us, we just want to play football in the best manner possible. I know people tend to say we struggle when the match gets physical, but it's not our type of game. We have been trying to grow in that aspect as a team, but, ja, we will see how the boys cope."

On the showboating remarks made by coach Abdeslam Ouaddou in recent weeks, much to the ire of supporters who want to be entertained, Sibisi defended the Pirates mentor.