The Soweto Derby is one of the most iconic rivalries in African soccer, pitting Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs against each other. Despite the fierce competition, the history and evolution of the two clubs are deeply intertwined.
Many players, and even coaches, have worn both Soweto Derby jerseys over the years—a testament to the shared legacy of South Africa’s most celebrated soccer teams.
The likes of Muhsin Ertugral, Kosta Papić and Vladimir Vermezović have coached both clubs, but Easybet has run through some notable player moves between the clubs, exploring the notable shift in perceptions of transfers between these two Soweto giants.
Kaizer Motaung Sr.: The Pioneer of Chiefs’ Legacy
Kaizer Chiefs owes its existence to Kaizer Motaung Sr., a former Orlando Pirates star. After a successful stint with Pirates, Motaung left South Africa to play in the North American Soccer League (NASL) for Atlanta Chiefs and Denver Dynamos. During his absence, Orlando Pirates became embroiled in infighting, creating a rift that paved the way for Motaung to form his club.
In 1970, Kaizer Chiefs was born, with Motaung at the helm. The new club quickly rose to prominence, aided by the arrival of three expelled Pirates players: Ratha Mokgoatlheng, Msomi Khoza, and Zero Johnson. These early transfers not only strengthened Chiefs but also set the stage for a long history of movement between the rival teams.
Modern-Era Crossovers and Controversies
Over the decades, numerous players and coaches have crossed the Soweto Derby divide. These moves often evoke strong emotions among fans, with some transfers becoming legendary—and others deeply controversial.
Jimmy Tau: The Most Controversial Crossover
Jimmy Tau remains one of the most divisive figures in the rivalry’s history. A former Orlando Pirates captain, he led the Buccaneers to a league title in the 2002-03 season. However, his move to Kaizer Chiefs in 2005 shocked Pirates fans, who saw his departure as a betrayal.
At Chiefs, Tau flourished, taking on the captaincy and winning another Premier Soccer League title during the 2012-13 season. His success at both clubs cemented his status as one of South Africa’s top players, but it also made him a polarising figure in the Soweto Derby’s lore.
Lehlohonolo Majoro: A Striker’s Tale
Lehlohonolo Majoro is another player who represented both sides of the Soweto divide. After a successful spell at Chiefs, where he was a key attacking player, Majoro joined Pirates in 2014. While his switch was less controversial than Tau’s, it highlighted the fluidity of modern soccer transfers.
Brilliant Khuzwayo: The anticlimax
Former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Khuzwayo spent six years at Kaizer Chiefs before moving to Orlando Pirates in 2018. However, his stint at Ezikamagebhula was even less memorable than that of Majoro as he suffered from injuries and retired from the game in 2019.
Bongani Sam: A Quiet Transition
The recent transfer of Bongani Sam from Orlando Pirates to Kaizer Chiefs is a prime example of how some moves occur with minimal fanfare. While his switch lacked the drama of Tau’s, it reflects the growing normalisation of player movement between the two clubs.
As fans anticipate the next chapter of this iconic rivalry, the tales of those who crossed the divide serve as a reminder of the enduring bond—and fierce competition—that defines the Soweto Derby.
