Pirates and Chiefs Prepare for Another Big Soweto Derby

Pirates and Chiefs Confirm Starting XIs for Highly Anticipated Soweto Derby

The stage is set for another exciting chapter in South African football’s biggest rivalry, with Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs confirming their starting line-ups ahead of Saturday afternoon’s highly anticipated Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium.

The two Soweto giants meet in the first derby of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season, with thousands of supporters expected to fill the sold-out stadium. Both clubs will be determined to secure maximum points, claim bragging rights and strengthen their respective league campaigns.

Orlando Pirates head into the encounter with confidence following an impressive run of results in the league. The defending champions have been among the strongest teams this season and will be eager to maintain their momentum against their biggest rivals.

Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has selected Sipho Chaine between the posts, with Nkosinathi Sibisi captaining the side. Lebone Seema partners Sibisi in central defence, while Deon Hotto and Bulelani Sigomoshe provide defensive options on the flanks.

In midfield, Thapelo Mokobodi, Thalente Mbatha and Simphiwe Selepe have been handed starting positions. Simphiwe Masilela, Tshepang Moremi and Yanela Mbuthuma complete the attacking department as Pirates look to trouble the Chiefs defence.

Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz has also made his selection, with Inacio Miguel returning to the starting line-up after replacing Rushwin Dortley in central defence.

Brandon Petersen captains Amakhosi from goal, while Paseka Mako, Thabo Moloisane, Inacio Miguel and Reeve Frosler form the defensive unit.

Sibongiseni Mthethwa will provide protection in midfield, supported by Lebohang Maboe and Mduduzi Shabalala. Pule Mmodi and Mfundo Vilakazi will operate in the attacking areas, while Wandile Duba leads the line after his impressive hat-trick against TS Galaxy in midweek.

Both teams arrive at the derby following convincing 3-0 victories in the Carling Knockout competition. Pirates defeated Milford FC, while Chiefs recorded an emphatic win over TS Galaxy.

However, Saturday’s encounter presents an entirely different challenge, considering the history, pressure and expectations surrounding this famous rivalry.

With three important league points at stake, neither side can afford to underestimate the other.

The match kicks off at 15:30, and supporters will be hoping for an entertaining contest between two of South Africa’s biggest football clubs.

Source https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2116504904831283548?a=ZaSBhMIe0KICuuP2LEY&s=19

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