Ramokadi has super memories of '96 Super Cup
Bruce Ramokadi, who scored the only goal in Orlando Pirates' 1996 Super Cup win over JS Kabylie, believes Mamelodi Sundowns will triumph in Saturday's installment. Photo: Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix Bruce Ramokadi, who scored the only goal in Orlando Pirates' 1996 Super Cup win over JS Kabylie, believes Mamelodi Sundowns will triumph in Saturday's installment. Photo: Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix
JOHANNESBURG - Bruce Ramokadi scored the game's only goal as Orlando Pirates beat Algerian side JS Kabylie in 1996 to earn what is still South Africa’s solitary success in the CAF Super Cup.
With Mamelodi Sundowns to set to face five-time African champions TP Mazembe on Saturday, Ramokadi spoke to Independent Media reporter Matshelane Mamabolo about his memories of the game and the Brazilians chances on Saturday.
"I remember that match very well. It was Mark Fish’s last game for Pirates before he moved to Italy and the club made him captain for that match. If I am not wrong, the match was Viktor Bondarenko’s first or second one as our coach," Ramokadi said
"I got to start the match because Jerry (Sikhosana) had some dispute with management and didn’t pitch up. It was incredible to score the goal that gave the club the trophy.
"But back then, we actually had no idea of the significance of the match. We had just won the Champions Cup and we thought that was it. And then we were told we had to play another match.
"I knew though that it was a serious match when the club got us to go into camp on the Wednesday. Normally, we only camped a day before the match. We knew nothing about JSK, except that they were from Algeria.
"Looking ahead to Saturday, I think Sundowns can beat Mazembe because they are tactically and technically superior to them. Mazembe are a very disciplined team but Sundowns should be able to break them down. They are at home and should use the advantage."
1996 Super Cup Orlando Pirates team: William Okpara; Mark Fish, Gavin Lane, Phiri Tsotetsi, Bernard Lushozi, Helman Mkhalele (Innocent Mncwango 46m), John Moeti, Dumisa Ngobe, Brandon Silent (Edward Motale 76m), Bruce Ramokadi.