A lot more than pride will be at stake when Kaizer Chiefs host Orlando Pirates in the first of two Soweto Derbies at FNB Stadium on Saturday.
Image: Itumeleng English, Independent Media
A lot more than pride will be at stake when Kaizer Chiefs host Orlando Pirates in the first of two Soweto Derbies at FNB Stadium on Saturday (3pm kick-off). For Amakhosi, a place in the top eight is on the line, while the Buccaneers are desperate to keep pace with Mamelodi Sundowns in their pursuit of a first league title in over a decade.
Ahead of a crunch week, Obakeng Meletse highlights five players who must deliver pivotal performances to swing the derby in their side’s favour.
When Matome Mathiane and Daniel Msendami breached Kaizer Chiefs’ defence twice in their 2-1 defeat last weekend, it highlighted why Amakhosi currently share the league’s third-worst defensive record. Injuries – notably to Inacio Miguel and Rushwin Dortley – have destabilised the backline.
While some recent goals conceded were avoidable, the entire defensive unit, including Bvuma, must step up. With a potent Pirates attack looming, Bvuma will need to sharpen his game to give Chiefs a fighting chance.
Much will rest on Gaston Sirino’s shoulders as Chiefs seek a vital result against their fiercest rivals. Returning after missing the clash against Marumo Gallants, Sirino – still finding his rhythm since joining from Sundowns – remains one of the few players capable of turning a match on its head.
With Chiefs facing two of their biggest games of the season, Sirino must repay the club’s faith and rediscover the spark that made him a star.
Despite scoring only four league goals this season, Evidence Makgopa continues to enjoy Jose Riveiro’s backing over the in-form Tshegofatso Mabasa. While praised for his tireless work rate, Pirates now need Makgopa to be far more clinical in front of goal.
With Sundowns holding a commanding goal difference advantage, the Buccaneers not only need a derby win – they need a big one to keep their title dreams alive.
Pirates’ central defence has faced upheaval this season due to injuries to Thabo Sesane and Olisa Ndah. While Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Nkosinathi Sibisi have formed a solid partnership, vulnerabilities were exposed in their 3-2 aggregate defeat to Pyramids FC.
The potential return of stand-in skipper Tapelo Xoki could be crucial. His leadership will be needed to steady the defence as Pirates aim to tighten up and stay in the hunt for silverware.
With Wandile Duba suspended, the spotlight shifts to Ashley du Preez. The 27-year-old, who made a decisive impact against Sundowns with a vital goal, must now replicate that cutting edge consistently.
Victories in these derbies could define Chiefs’ season – and Du Preez's contributions could make the difference between disappointment and redemption.
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