Hope FC captain Lyle Lakay is targeting bragging rights for his newly-promoted side in the upcoming Cape Town derby against Cape Town City. The match is set for Athlone Stadium and represents a major early-season test for both clubs in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
Lakay, who previously played for Cape Town City, brings significant derby experience to the Hope FC squad. He last featured in a local clash in 2009 while with FC Cape Town. "The last time I played in a derby I think was in 2009 when I was at FC Cape Town," Lakay said. "We used to play Vasco in the NFD."
Hope FC have made a solid start to life in the second tier, collecting six points from their opening three matches. Their ambition is clear, with teammate Siyabonga Nhlapo promising an aggressive approach. "It's going to be an electrifying game," Nhlapo said. "We are not going to hold back."
For Cape Town City, the derby is a chance to stay as the city's leading club and improve on their current league standing. They sit fifth in the First Division with seven points from four games, having won two, drawn one and lost one.
The most recent meeting between the sides saw Cape Town City secure a 2-0 victory over Hope FC on September 13. That result is part of a run where City have scored six goals and conceded four this season.
Both Lakay and Nhlapo joined Hope FC during the pre-season following the club's promotion from the ABC Motsepe League. Their integration has been key to the team's early competitiveness. The derby kicks off at 3pm local time at Athlone Stadium.
