Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Masilo Machaka has praised Orlando Pirates, describing the Buccaneers as the best team in South Africa following their recent Soweto Derby victory over Amakhosi.

Machaka believes the difference in squad quality between the two Soweto giants was clear during the encounter, arguing that Pirates currently have a stronger group of players capable of competing against any team in the Betway Premiership.

According to the former Chiefs defender, the quality of players recruited by Orlando Pirates has helped the club build a squad with impressive depth. He also suggested that Amakhosi still have considerable work to do before they can match their rivals.

"Orlando Pirates is the best team in the country. Orlando Pirates has too many quality players, the best quality ever," Machaka said.

He went further to praise the Buccaneers' recruitment strategy, pointing out that the club has assembled players who can make a difference against different opponents.

Machaka also questioned the depth available at Kaizer Chiefs, suggesting that the players on the Amakhosi bench did not offer the same level of match-changing quality as those available to Pirates.

His assessment was based largely on what he witnessed during the derby, where he felt the Buccaneers were the better side, particularly during the closing stages of the match.

Reflecting on the final 10 minutes of the second half, Machaka argued that Pirates were creating dangerous opportunities even before Miguel's red card changed the situation.

He mentioned chances involving Evidence Makgopa and Deon Hotto's teammate Moremi, believing the Buccaneers could have added several more goals if they had taken their opportunities.

"Orlando Pirates was the better team on the day. You can look at the second half, the last 10 minutes, they were all over us even before Miguel got a red card," he explained.

Machaka added that Pirates had opportunities to score three or four goals during that period, highlighting the attacking threat they carried against their Soweto rivals.

He concluded by insisting that Kaizer Chiefs remain behind Orlando Pirates in terms of individual quality.

"Kaizer Chiefs players can't reach the level of Orlando Pirates players. We're still far behind in terms of quality," he stated.

The comments will likely attract attention from supporters of both clubs, given the intensity of the Soweto rivalry. While Pirates continue to receive praise for their squad depth and recruitment, Chiefs will be under pressure to strengthen their team and close the gap on their biggest rivals.

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