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Losing Soweto derby not an option - Ertugral

Johannesburg - Orlando Pirates' Turkish coach Muhsin Ertugral says the Soweto derby is the perfect example why football is called "the beautiful game", as he prepares his team for the clash on Saturday.

The Pirates take on arch-rivals the Kaizer Chiefs at the Soweto Stadium built for the 2010 Soccer World Cup, with a noisy, sell-out crowd expected to create an electric atmosphere.

Q: What makes the Soweto derby special?

A: Having been in a couple of derbies in international football, I think this is one of the most interesting ones of all. Sometimes the result might be not that exciting, but the supporters and the vibe is always amazing.

Q: What are your views on the spectators?

We call it the beautiful game and the spectators actually make it beautiful. I have never seen a place where fans sit together in such a big derby.

Q: How do you motivate the players ahead of the game?

A: As the coach you actually need to calm the players' emotions down but during the match the game plan is forgotten.

Q: Tell us about the importance of winning

A: It is a must for us to win... this is about pride and dignity.

Q: What are your memories of the Ellis Park stampede in 2001, when scores of spectators died?

A: I was on the field (as Chiefs' coach) on that day. That memory is still on my mind. It was a sad day, I don't want to go through that again.

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