Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates will meet in the first of two Soweto derby matches in the space of a week. This weekend’s clash could shape the direction of the South African Premiership title race.
Although next week’s Soweto Derby in Durban will decide the Nedbank Cup champion, Saturday’s derby at FNB Stadium also carries serious weight. Pirates remain locked in a battle for league honours, while Chiefs are fighting to salvage their season.
Title: Pressure On The Buccaneers
Orlando Pirates (2.24) head into this Soweto derby with more than just bragging rights at stake. They currently trail Mamelodi Sundowns by 12 points in the South African Premiership, but they still have two games in hand. With just seven matches left for Pirates and only five remaining for Sundowns, each point is crucial.
However, the Buccaneers suffered a blow in midweek when they lost 1-0 to Sekhukhune United. This defeat made Saturday’s game even more important for coach José Riveiro and his team. Their CAF Champions League dream was also dashed recently after a 3-2 aggregate semi-final loss to Egypt’s Pyramids FC.
Kaizer Chiefs Seek Soweto Derby Redemption
Kaizer Chiefs (3.55), meanwhile, have endured another frustrating season. Their 2-1 defeat to Marumo Gallants last Saturday left them ninth on the table. It also extended their winless run in the South African Premiership to six matches.
Coach Nasreddine Nabi will be concerned about more than just form. His team risks missing out on MTN8 qualification for a second consecutive campaign, having failed to qualify last season before he arrived. That adds even more significance to the derby, where both pride and points are on the line.
Chiefs may not be chasing the title, but they know a Soweto Derby win could lift morale and restore faith among their supporters ahead of the Nedbank Cup final. Additionally, beating their oldest rivals could help revive their dwindling hopes of a top-eight finish. The Soweto Derby remains one of the most-watched fixtures in African soccer, and the players know exactly what it means.
Soweto Derby Injury Concerns and Suspensions
Pirates will be without their captain Nkosinathi Sibisi, who is suspended after receiving a red card in midweek. Defensive reinforcements remain limited as the Soweto Derby looms near, as Olisa Ndah, Thabiso Lebitso and Thabiso Monyane are all still sidelined after recent injury setbacks. Thabiso Sesane is back in training but not expected to be rushed back into action.
Up front, Zakhele Lepasa remains out injured, while Monnapule Saleng has been absent amid reported contract disputes. Although Saleng did return to play for Bafana Bafana in March’s African Nations Championship qualifier, it’s unlikely he’ll be risked for the derby unless he proves match-fit.
Kaizer Chiefs have been handed a timely boost with the return of Gaston Sirino and Pule Mmodi, who both missed the Gallants defeat due to suspension. However, there are concerns over defender Rushwin Dortley, who remains an injury doubt. These returns could add some much-needed creativity and stability to a side that has lacked fluency.
Final Thoughts
With both teams under pressure for different reasons, this Soweto derby promises fireworks. Pirates have the incentive of a league title push. Chiefs are desperate to stop the rot. A high-intensity, emotionally charged encounter is guaranteed.
For fans of online sports betting, this Soweto Derby offers a wide range of markets. With unpredictable scorelines and high stakes, it’s one of the most fascinating matchups on the South African soccer calendar.
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