Chaine Downplays Senzo Comparisons: Focuses on Personal Journey with Pirates

Orlando Pirates’ MTN8 hero Sipho Chaine has played down comparisons to slain Buccaneers shot stopper Senzo Meyiwa following his impressive performance in Saturday’s final against Mamelodi Sundowns.

The 26-year-old goalkeeper, who was signed by Pirates on transfer deadline day in September last year, proved to be the difference in the game as he made a number of impressive saves, first in regulation time and then in the penalty shootout that ensued.

In the shoot-out, Chaine denied Bongani Zungu, Junior Mendieta and Teboho Mokoena as Pirates sealed a 3-1 win to retain their MTN8 title.

Naturally, his displays between the sticks for Pirates have drawn comparisons between himself and the late Meyiwa, who at the time of his tragic passing in 2014, had the hopes of the club on his shoulders.

However, Chaine has played down the comparisons between himself and the late ‘Nzori’.

“I really don’t know how to answer this question,” he said after the match. “Anyone can compare but for me I just focus on being myself and trying to work as hard as I can to improve and get better.”

Sipho Chaine’s performance in the MTN8 final was nothing short of heroic, and despite comparisons to Senzo Meyiwa, the 26-year-old is determined to make his own mark on the game.