The Soweto Derby is South Africa’s biggest soccer fixture. Kaizer Chiefs vs. Orlando Pirates never fails to deliver drama.
Fans pack the stadium to watch these historic rivals. Over the years, there have been many unforgettable clashes.
Kaizer Chiefs (1.71) and Orlando Pirates (1.40) next face off on 1 February in the South African Premiership. The match will take place at the iconic FNB Stadium, which has been the site of many great matches – although clothes have taken place elsewhere in South Africa.
Before betting on the Soweto Derby with Easybet, a trip down memory lane can help punters understand why this fixture is so special and what to expect.
The First Soweto Derby (1970)
The first-ever Soweto Derby took place in January 1970 during the Rogue Beer Cup third-place play-off. Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates clashed in a high-scoring thriller. Pirates emerged victorious with a 6-4 win at Orlando Stadium.
Percy ‘Chippa’ Moloi opened the scoring for Pirates, while Chiefs’ Petros ‘Ten-Ten’ Nzimande accidentally added an own goal. Ace Ntsoelengoe led Chiefs’ comeback with two goals to level the match at half-time.
Pirates regained control in the second half through Remember Majoe and Bernard Hartze, who scored twice each. Jacob Masike pulled one back for the Chiefs, but Hartze’s late goal sealed the historic win for Pirates. This unforgettable match set the stage for the epic rivalry to follow.
The Nomvethe-Lota Battle (1999/2000)
In 1999 and 2000, Siyabonga Nomvethe and Dennis Lota stole the show. Their goal-scoring rivalry electrified the Soweto Derby. Nomvethe scored in the first minute, but Lota equalised just a minute later.
Phumlani Mkhize’s late strike secured a 2-2 draw for Pirates. The frenetic pace thrilled fans at the stadium. This match remains a classic for its high-octane drama.
The Goalkeepers’ Duel (2007/2008)
The 2007/2008 derby featured a thrilling 2-2 draw. It marked the beginning of the rivalry between Senzo Meyiwa and Itumeleng Khune. Both goalkeepers conceded twice, but the game showcased their potential.
Mabhuti Khenyeza scored the fastest Soweto Derby goal, finding the net after 19 seconds. Excellent Walaza’s brace gave Pirates the lead. Arthur Zwane’s late equaliser ensured Chiefs salvaged a point.
The Benni McCarthy Show (2011/2012)
The 2011/2012 derby belonged to Benni McCarthy. His two goals inspired Pirates to a 3-2 victory. Andile Jali added another to seal the win.
Chiefs fought back with goals from Siphiwe Tshabalala and Lehlohonolo Majoro. However, McCarthy’s class was too much to overcome. Fans left the FNB Stadium talking about his stunning performance.
Pirates would go on to win three trophies that season – the Premiership, MTN8 and Telkom Knockout. The previous season, they had won the Premiership, MTN8 and Nedbank Cup. The Buccaneers have not won the league title since then but the current squad shows plenty of promise.
Chiefs’ Controversial 3-2 Win (2019/20)
Kaizer Chiefs’ 3-2 victory in a later derby sparked heated debates. The match saw Ernst Middendorp’s tactics questioned by Pirates’ coach Rhulani Mokwena. Mokwena accused Middendorp of thuggish behaviour during the heated encounter.
Chiefs’ goals came from a combination of tactical execution and individual brilliance. Pirates’ attempts to fight back fell short despite their resilience. The post-match drama added to the intensity of the rivalry. Mokwena was soon axed from his role but later bounced back as head coach of Mamelodi Sundowns and is now with Wydad Casablanca.
