Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos hopes Orlando Pirates get knocked out of the Carling Knockout Cup this weekend.
The Buccaneers play Richards Bay on Saturday, looking to reach another cup final this season.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, Broos explained why he wanted the Sea Robbers out of the competition. The Belgian named nine Pirates players in his 23-man Bafana squad to play Zambia next week in preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Broos not happy with Pirates playing in the Carling KO
With the tournament kicking off next month, Broos made it clear that he does not want his players in action from December onwards. With Pirates making up almost 50% of his squad, the last thing he needs is players arriving at camp with niggles and carrying injuries.
“Last AFCON was even worse, they played on the 31st of December and we started preparations on the 4th of January or something like that,” Broos said.
“We don’t have much collaboration from PSL to stop all those things a little bit earlier.
“I asked now to stop the competition (Carling KO) on the 4th of December but no, they have to play that final on the 6th. So, I am very happy. I’m sorry to say this, but I am happy that Sundowns are out and that Chiefs are out. I hope maybe that Pirates can be out so the guys can have a bit of rest,” Broos said.
Bafana will host regional neighbours Zambia at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in the Eastern Cape on Saturday, 15 November.
With Pirates playing a week before the friendly, expect to see Broos and his assistant Helman Mkhelele in the stands on Saturday during the clash between the Buccaneers and the Natal Rich Boys.