Kaizer Chiefs have added three intriguing names to their squad but one of them won’t be involved against Orlando Pirates in the Soweto Derby.
Tashreeq Morris suspended for the Soweto Derby
30-year-old Tashreeq Morris brings vast experience and physicality after stints with SuperSport, Sekhukhune, Cape Town City and the now-defunct Ajax Cape Town. He may not be an automatic starter but gives manager Nasreddine Nabi an interesting option up top. With news of Wandile Duba’s unfortunate injury, perhaps Morris could get serious game time from the get-go. That won’t come against Pirates, however, as the ex-Matsatsantsa man is suspended.
Soweto Derby H2H stats: Kaizer Chiefs out to end Pirates’ dominance
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.
Hotto vs Nkota should be a battle for the ages
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 Mohau Nkota. It’s a battle to watch closely.
Who will prevail in the Soweto Derby?
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