The Soweto Derby is more than just a football match – it’s a spectacle, a lifestyle, and one of the most anticipated showdowns on the African continent. With bragging rights on the line, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs will face off at a sold-out FNB Stadium on Saturday, and Hollywoodbets Brand Ambassador, Teko Modise, has identified the players who could steal the spotlight in what promises to be another thrilling encounter.
Pirates Looking to Continue Derby Dominance
The Buccaneers have been in control of recent Soweto Derbies, winning three consecutive matches, including a 2-1 victory in the 2023 Nedbank Cup and two league wins (1-0 and 3-2) last season. Heading into this weekend’s clash, Pirates have the upper hand in both form and position on the log. With 21 points, Chiefs are languishing in fifth, while Pirates sit just six points behind log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns with 27 points.
As is often the case in this fiery rivalry, form can be irrelevant on derby day. What matters is which team can step up and deliver when the pressure is at its peak. Modise has identified several key players who could make the difference.
Key Pirates Players to Watch
Modise believes Orlando Pirates’ Relebohile Mofokeng is in fantastic form and could be a key player in the game. “Mofokeng has been exceptional for Pirates, and we expect him to play a big part in this derby,” said Modise. The 22-year-old has been a standout performer for the Buccaneers, scoring four goals and providing an assist in his last six matches. Alongside Mofokeng, the youthful Mohau Nkota on the right-wing and Patrick Maswanganyi are expected to play pivotal roles in attack, with Maswanganyi tipped to shine at the FNB Stadium.
Pirates’ goalkeeper Sipho Chaine is another player Modise highlights. “Chaine could have a standout performance, especially with the intensity of this match,” he added. Chaine has been solid between the posts for Pirates, and he will need to be at his best to keep the Chiefs attackers at bay.
Kaizer Chiefs: Sirino’s Moment to Shine?
On the Chiefs’ side, the return of coach Nasreddine Nabi from his two-match ban is a boost, and Modise is hopeful the Belgian-Tunisian will have his players ready for the derby. One player to keep an eye on is Gaston Sirino, who is returning to full fitness after being sidelined for six games. Sirino’s influence off the bench in Chiefs’ 4-0 Nedbank Cup win over Free Agents suggests he could be a game-changer if selected by Nabi for this high-stakes encounter.
“I think Sirino could be the player who turns his fortunes around at Chiefs in this match,” Modise said. “This could be the game that turns Sirino into a key figure for Chiefs for the rest of the season.”
Modise also points to youngster Mduduzi Shabalala as another potential star for Chiefs. Shabalala’s flair and creativity could trouble Pirates’ defense, while Sibongiseni Mthethwa is expected to play a crucial role in midfield, where he will have to match the energy and drive of Pirates’ midfielders.
The Stakes are High
With both teams desperate for a win, this Soweto Derby is set to be a battle of contrasting styles, and the players Modise has highlighted will be key to deciding the outcome. Chiefs will be looking to turn around their recent form, while Pirates aim to continue their derby dominance and close the gap on Sundowns at the top of the league.
Kick-off is set for 15:30 on Saturday at the iconic FNB Stadium, and fans can expect an electric atmosphere as these two giants of South African football go head-to-head once again.
