Clash of the Soweto Titans takes centre stage
While the DSTV Premiership title is out of reach for both clubs, the game is still expected to bring the country to standstill for 90 minutes.
Orlando Pirates' #8 Thabang Monare is marked by Kaizer Chiefs' #8 Yusuf Maart during the Premier Soccer League (PSL) South African Premier Division football match between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg on November 11, 2023.
JOHANNESBURG - The Soweto Derby takes centre stage on the South African sporting calendar this weekend with Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs as the main attraction.
While the DSTV Premiership title is out of reach for both clubs, the game is still expected to bring the country to standstill for 90 minutes, with eyes across the length and breadth of South Africa glued to the action at the FNB Stadium.
One point separates Pirates in 5th on the table from Chiefs in 6th and the winner will climb up to 2nd place and occupy the crucial CAF Champions League qualifying spot, if only for the time being.
The Buccaneers are hoping to complete their first league double over their arch-rivals in 15 years but come into this fixture with one win from their last 5 league games after their 1-1 draw with Cape Town Spurs midweek. Coach Jose Riveiro says his team's recent run of results is not a concern ahead of the derby.
“It’s not about form or the last game. It’s about on the day, who can control their emotions better as well as the atmosphere, nervousness, stress, and be close to your best version, which is difficult in these games,” said Riveiro.
As for Amakhosi, despite their early exit in the Nedbank Cup, they have been more consistent in the league, having conceded just one goal in their last eight games.
A sold-out crowd is expected once again at Soccer City and the 90,000 fans will be hoping one of their favourites will steal the show.