Orlando Pirates' Andre De Jong Eyes Defining Night As Pirates Host Mamelodi Sundowns

A blockbuster Betway Premiership top-of-the-table clash awaits at FNB Stadium on Wednesday night as Orlando Pirates host Mamelodi Sundowns, with Andre de Jong determined to seize the moment for both club and country.

De Jong’s Instant Impact At Pirates

After joining Pirates last month from Stellenbosch, de Jong has become an instant fan favourite at the club, receiving standing ovations when he takes to the pitch and loud cheers whenever he’s on the ball.

The New Zealander has also found his feet, scoring on his first start during the 4-1 win over Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila (TTM) in the Nedbank Cup last-32 at Moses Mabhida Stadium a few weeks ago.

While the win over TTM meant Pirates kept their quadruple aspirations alive – having already won the MTN8 and Carling Knockout – it’s the league title they desire most.

As such, they will face Sundowns in a top-of-the-table clash at the Calabash that could see them extend their lead to nine points over the defending champions, who would still have one game in hand.

Club Success And World Cup Ambitions

De Jong wants to approach the fixture with two objectives in mind: helping Pirates secure a much-needed win, while also boosting his chances of being part of the Kiwis’ final squad that will compete at the FIFA World Cup in North America in June.

“Since the move to Pirates, I’ve had the exposure that it brings on social media and in the media. I think people in New Zealand are starting to see how big the move is, which is obviously good for my ambitions,” de Jong said.

“So, the plan is to be involved in the so-called ‘bigger games’ – this one [against Sundowns] and against Kaizer Chiefs [on February 28]. To be involved in those games is exciting for me. So, hopefully, I can settle.”

Having already been part of the national team set-up in the past two camps due to his exploits at Stellies, de Jong revealed how joining the Sea Robbers – a club that has been thriving in recent years – has further strengthened his World Cup ambitions.

A Career-Defining Move

“I think when Pirates showed interest, it was a very exciting move for me,” de Jong stated. “I think it really pushes my aspirations to be in the World Cup team. So, that’s one of my big goals.

“But also, Pirates have won many trophies in the past. So, joining an establishment like this is really good for my career. Hopefully, I can contribute to the club and help the team win more trophies.”

De Jong is notably the third New Zealander to ply his trade in the PSL top flight, following the arrivals of Michael Boxall at the now-defunct SuperSport United and Jeremy Brockie, who played for both Tshwane giants, SuperSport and Sundowns.

While Brockie struggled in the latter part of his PSL stint at Sundowns, de Jong hopes to follow in his prolific footsteps at Matsatsantsa.

“There’ve been a few New Zealanders who have played here – obviously, Michael Boxall and Brockie. Prior to coming here, I actually spoke to them, and they spoke highly of the league and the country in general,” de Jong said.

“So, I’m obviously hoping to emulate some of what Brockie did in front of goal. If I can replicate even half of what he achieved, that would be amazing, of course.”

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