Yusuf Maart urges Kaizer Chiefs ‘mindset to be on the same page' in Orlando Pirates Soweto derby
Matshelane Mamabolo | Published 28 minutes ago
YUSUF Maart would make a fantastic poker player.
The Kaizer Chiefs captain's ability to keep a straight face would get Raymond Rahme's approval. And then there's his monotonous tone.
Even on a subject that would have seen many a player's eyes lit up, Maart remained his usual calm self
The Soweto derby is one of the matches the Capetonian will always be remembered for, Maart having scored that fantastic goal from the halfway mark.
But when quizzed about today's Premiership clash with Orlando Pirates (3pm kick-off), the 29-year-old could well have been watching paint dry.
There was no rise in decibel. No twinkle in his eye. The tone of his voice remained unchanged.
'It's a big game for the country, and we are excited and happy,' he said.
The deaf would have accused the sign language interpreter of fibbing.
'We want to go out there and enjoy the game. Everyone has the same feeling, and they want to do well.'
That Chiefs will be out to shine at a packed FNB Stadium today cannot be denied, Amakhosi keen to get even for the first-round last-minute defeat they suffered thanks to that panenka by Tito Maswanganyi.
Maart and his teammates are also eager to get the maximum points as they seek to avoid missing out on the top eight for a second successive season.
Chiefs' recent form has not been the kind to send their faithful shouting 'we are going to win' at the rooftops, even if their traditional rivals have not set the scene on fire themselves.
That much Maart acknowledges.
'In the past few games, we were not playing well, games didn't go our way. But that's football.
'We are going through a stage when things are a bit difficult for us, but it is part of the game.
'We look at the positives, and in this game (the match against Pirates), we need to go as a team. Everyone's mindset must be on the same page and be mentally strong.
'We have two games on the back of each other, but the mood and everything is positive, and everyone is excited,' the drawl made a mockery of that last word.
This match, though, the country's biggest tie, is not like any other, and Maart is banking on its uniqueness to help Chiefs turn things around.
'The momentum of this game (Soweto derby) is different because the environment is different. The coach knows how he wants to play and how he wants his game plan to work.
'So, I think that will affect the energy of the game, how the game will be played.
'For us to finish (the season) strongly, we need to start with this game and then to end it with the last game of the season.'
Maart has endured somewhat of a love-hate relationship with Amakhosi fans, but he says he remains steadfast in his ways, and would never allow outside views on him and his game to affect him negatively.
'My mood and mind will always be the same and be positive. I think there are a lot of challenges that players go through on the field, and you don't know what their problems are or how they are dealing with them.
'You can judge me and do what you want, but I will always remain positive and strong.'
Amakhosi fans will be expecting him to produce a positive and strong performance against the bitter arch-rivals this weekend and the next, so that he helps Chiefs to what would be a successful season.
There was no telling, though, what Maart was thinking in that regard, his face sure to have probably even confused South Africa's most successful poker player.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
IOL News
an hour ago
- IOL News
As stinking-rich Mamelodi Sundowns become richer, implications for Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates profound
While Sundowns have been in the US, chairman Tlhopie Motsepe (with trophy) outlined ambitious plans to invest in local talent development and expand essential infrastructure. Photo: BackpagePix Image: BackpagePix Straight Talk Column by Herman Gibbs Mamelodi Sundowns will receive an impressive R174 million just for participating in the 2025 Fifa Club World Cup, as well as R36 million for each victory during the group stage. This substantial financial injection will enable Sundowns to easily maintain and enhance their stronghold in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), ensuring their ongoing dominance in domestic football. However, this development is rather ominous for the PSL's two glamour teams, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates. Both clubs boast a rich history and monumental fan-bases, often highlighted by the 'sold out' Soweto Derbies, where passion and rivalry ignite stadiums. Chiefs and Pirates have also enjoyed the thrill of several capacity crowds over the past two seasons. Until recently, Chiefs have not won a trophy in a decade, but they continue to attract lucrative sponsorships based on their pulling power, despite dwindling crowds. Yet, as Sundowns' dominance continues to grow, these storied franchises appear increasingly destined to remain in the shadows of their Chloorkop rivals. Sundowns' motto, 'The sky is the limit', reflects a commitment to transcend the traditional boundaries of sporting success. Their emblem – a hand poised with a finger pointing skyward – symbolises an aspiration that knows no limitations, whether rooted in historical performance or geographical challenges. The tragedy of the situation is that Chiefs and Pirates have shown no ambition to reclaim their lost glory, and will remain ensnared in the slipstream of Sundowns' relentless pursuit of excellence. There is no evidence that the 'Soweto Giants' will rise to challenge Masandawana or continue to watch from the shadows. While Sundowns have been in the United States, the club's chairman, Tlhopie Motsepe, outlined the Brazilians' ambitious plans to invest in local talent development and expand essential infrastructure. At the heart of this vision is the establishment of a world-class academy aimed at nurturing home-grown talent. Motsepe emphasised that the goal is to ensure the finest local players do not have to look overseas to join the ranks of prestigious European clubs. He spoke about an academy that stands toe-to-toe with Europe's elite institutions. He also highlighted the urgent need for robust infrastructure, notably the club's aspiration to build a stadium, noting the benefits of having a dedicated venue as a home ground. On the playing field, the Fifa Club World Cup will be a game-changer for the South African players wearing the famous Brazilian-inspired jerseys. They will face opponents with distinctive playing styles and strategies, propelling the team into uncharted territory. They will step onto the pitch against European powerhouse Borussia Dortmund and South American heavyweights Fluminense, and each match presents an invaluable opportunity for growth and development. Every match will serve as a test of skill and a rite of passage, transporting Sundowns from regional dominance to global contenders. With each opponent presenting a fresh challenge, the club has the chance to elevate its playing standards, an evolution that could define its legacy on the international stage. In their next two group matches, Sundowns will confront the blistering speed of Germany's Dortmund and the intricate ball control epitomised by Brazil's Fluminense.
The South African
9 hours ago
- The South African
Orlando Pirates sign X-factor player: Contract details revealed!
Orlando Pirates have reportedly closed out a smart bit of business! The Buccaneers have added a new dimension to their attack in the form of raw pace and skill! Last season, Orlando Pirates desperately missed some x-factor nature in their attack. Make no mistake, the likes of Relebohile Mofokeng, Kabelo Dlamini and Mohau Nkota are all brilliant footballers. However Monnapule Saleng's absence was indeed felt. Now, the club have landed a similar type of player! READ MORE • Kaizer Chiefs star left out of European tour as another exit looms! READ MORE • Pirates name their asking price for Relebohile Mofokeng! Orlando Pirates have completed the signing of 24-year-old AmaZulu FC winger Tshepang Moremi. Moremi has put pen-to-paper on a three-year deal at the Buccaneers with an option to extend. 'After the speculation about his future, Bafana Bafana attacker Tshepang Moremi has finally put pen-to-paper on a deal with Orlando Pirates,' an insider told KickOff . 'Moremi has signed a three-year deal with Pirates after AmaZulu gave him blessings to move to Gauteng next season.' READ MORE • Mokwena sends crushing message to Kaizer Chiefs fans! To close the gap on rivals Mamelodi Sundowns, who else do you think Orlando Pirates should sign? The Buccaneers will be competing in five competitions next season and will need as much fire-power as possible. Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@ or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. You can also follow @ TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.
The South African
9 hours ago
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs star left out of European tour as another exit looms?
Kaizer Chiefs FC are set to jet out of the country for their annual pre-season camp next month. The Glamour Boys will set-up base in the Netherlands to get their squad up to speed for the 2025/26 campaign. Last season, Chiefs finished outside of the league's top eight however they managed to win the Nedbank Cup! Kaizer Chiefs will compete in the CAF Confederations Cup next season thanks to their Nedbank Cup triumph. READ MORE • Sundowns hijack key Chiefs transfer target! READ MORE • Orlando Pirates name their asking price for Relebohile Mofokeng! According to the latest reports, Kaizer Chiefs FC will be travelling to Europe without a star midfielder! Colombian star Edson Castillo isn't on the list of players that will be heading to Netherlands, according to Unplayable ! In fact, the player will reportedly leave the club before the start of the new season! 'Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Edson Castillo could be set for a surprise exit with the player said to be exploring his options,' an IDiski Times report read. Head coach Nasreddine Nabi is reportedly keen on opening up foreign spots at the club. Chiefs have already said goodbye to Sabelo Radebe, Njabulo Blom, Edmilson Dove and Ranga Chivaviro. READ MORE • Kaizer Chiefs spot huge chance to sign Sundowns man! Nasreddine Nabi's side will be competing for four trophies next season. Which players do you think aren't up to the task at Naturena? Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@ or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. You can also follow @ TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.
