Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs fans are beside themselves with excitement and nerves. Here are ALL the Soweto Derby deets you need.
When is the Soweto Derby?
Orlando Stadium plays host to another battle between arch-rivals Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs. The latest chapter will be written on Saturday 01 February with kickoff at 15:30.
Predicted Orlando Pirates XI
The Sea Robbers side has a nice, settled look about it with the reliable attacking midfield triumvirate of Mohau Nkota, Patrick Maswanganyi and Rele Mofokeng more than capable of painting pretty pictures and giving defenders considerable headaches.
Chaine; Van Rooyen, Sesane, Sibisi, Hotto; Mbatha, Makhaula; Nkota, Maswanganyi, Mofokeng; Mabasa.
Predicted Kaizer Chiefs XI
Coach Nasreddine Nabi must again find a solution to his striker shortage with Glody Lilepo unlikely to get work permit clearance in time and Wandile Duba ruled out. Pule Mmodi, scorer of a brace in the 4-0 win over Free Agents, has made a huge case for a place in the XI. Gaston Sirino is an option wide in attack too but fan favourite Mfundo Vilakazi could get the nod. Mduduzi Shabalala will start in the number 10 role.
Bvuma; Blom, Miguel, Dortley, Cross; Maart, Mthethwa; Vilakazi, Shabalala, Mmodi; Chivaviro.
Hotto vs Obrigado could produce fireworks
The evergreen, versatile talents of 34-year-old Deon Hotto Kavendji aren’t lost on the Pirates supporters. The Namibian utility star always delivers what his manager wants and does so in several positions. Mostly utilized on the left-hand side of the defence in recent years after cutting his teeth as a left winger, Hotto has also been deployed in a right-sided attacking role in Caf Champions League clashes this term. The ultimate ‘Swiss Army Knife’ player, Hotto will be key to Pirates’ chances of success on Derby Day. Vast experience counts for a lot on these grand occasions. His opposite number in the derby, in all likelihood, will be exciting youngster Mfundo Vilakazi.
Recent H2Hs
Pirates have held the upper hand in recent meetings between these great rivals. The Buccaneers have won the last three meetings across all competitions, including each of the last two in the league, most recently that 3-2 success for the Sea Robbers in March 2024 with Monnapule Saleng bagging a double. That stopped a curious and somewhat surprising run of five consecutive wins for Chiefs in Soweto Derby league clashes with the Sea Robbers. These rivals lock horns again on Saturday 01 February at Orlando Stadium from 15:30. We wouldn’t want you to miss it for the world.
Who’s your money on?
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